You might want to PM Donny's Mom. She live in BC, I believe.
I am hoping someone familar with BC spec ed policies sees this and has something to offer, however, any advice is truly welcome.
Ten days ago I enrolled Sam in public school. He had been in an independant school for 2 years previous. After a bad start at the beginning of this year we decided to try homeschooling. This has only worked in part as private resources are limited and I am unable to meet Sam's needs on my own.
Yesterday I was informed that the school district is over budget and that they are unable to obtain an aide for my son. They were able to offer Homebound Service of 3 hrs/wk for the rest of the year. I thanked him for the info and asked who do I speak to if I find this unacceptable. He refered me to the superintendant.
I have researched the policies and to the best of my understanding they cannot deny my son access to school and the resources necessary to succeed.He does qualifiy for an aide. He does not qualify for Homebound Services as he has no medical conditon preventing him form going to school, and they cannot keep him away due to behavoural issues.
I plan to write the superintendant informing him of my understanding of the rights and services Sam is entilted to and to inform them that Sam will be attending school in 2 weeks time. That I trust the school will have the supports in place in that time and that I will be kept in contact with meanwhile to help make this transition as smooth as posible for Sam.
I am wondering whether to mention my intent to seek legal advice if this is not resolved in an acceptable and timely manner in this letter? Is this the direction I should be heading with this? Am I missing something?
I find the new role of advocate for my son pushes me far out of my confort zone. I know knowledge is power in this educational game and right now I am afraid they know something I don't.
Thank you for any insight.
Mama to Sam 7yr, PDD-NOS, Profound Phonological Disorder, OCD, ODD