I think Marcia's point is an important one, and it's definitely a consideration in the situation I find myself (and my son) in right now… my son has had a heck of a time since he started in public school. He is in 1st grade now and while he is doing WAYYYY better than he did in K, he is still having a lot of issues with doing what they require of him (doing his work and proving that he is learning in a way that is convenient for them). Dealing with the "process" (IEPs, accommodations, aides, pull-outs, etc) is very stressful and exhausting for everyone and there is a lot of confusion as to where the school staff actually stand (because what they SAY often seems to be different from what they actually THINK, because of politics and what they are allowed to say, etc.) I think when it really comes down to it, educating my son is a huge pain in the butt for them, but of course they can't say that. They would probably be overjoyed if we got the heck out of there and either put him in a special school or chose to homeschool him. That said, my son is actually having a good time and ENJOYS his school and so far has zero interest in being school elsewhere (including at home). That may change as he gets older, and when/if bullying becomes a factor, as seems to be the case for so many on this board, and at that time those options may become more appealing. But for the moment, I feel he is exactly where he should be (mainstreamed in a public school, with accommodations), even though it is very "inconvenient" for the staff and sometimes annoying to the other parents.
21 Mar 2014, 12:29 pm
