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Special Needs
d.f
member
F/U on school choice
d.f
member
Prior post https://community.thebump.com/cs/ks/forums/thread/71560850.aspx
After requesting to speak with the SpEd teacher the charter gave me until today to turn in enrollment paperwork and the deposit. I very narrowly decided on my neighborhood school and relinquished DS's spot at the charter yesterday. I visited all of the potential K classes and spoke with the SpEd teachers at both schools.
I actually think the charter has a fantastic program and really like the Special Ed teacher. She seemed very willing to work with us. The one kid on the spectrum between the two full day K classes was describe as one of the natural decoders. (thank you auntie for clueing me into looking for that). So I asked if that was the norm for their successful kids on the spectrum and the SpEd teacher said it was actually unusual. After talking to her I think my child could be successful there, but after thinking about the classroom visits I don't think it's the best place for him.
My decision came down mostly to a gut feeling. I could picture DS loving the neighborhood school classroom. The teacher (background in SpEd) had a way about her I could see him responding to very well. His SLP and OT know her professionally and think she would be good with him. There were movement breaks and the flow of the classroom just kind of fits his personality. There was also plenty of positive reinforcement of appropriate behavior.
The charter school classrooms were nice and organized and seemed like a great place to learn but the traditional structure was more overt, There was more desk work and sitting in seats. There was less positive reinforcement and more focus on discipline (recess taken away, threats of office visits). I just didn't think DS would be as successful. We may consider it again later as he becomes better at self-regulation.
DH was fine with either school. He was willing to "take a risk" on the charter but kind of defaulted to me. I know the K class at the neighborhood school is the best fit for DS. I hope the school continues to work in the future years but I'm willing to keep an open mind. I feel pretty good about the decision. Two of the members of his current school team told me they think it's best after I told them we decided. I wish they would have been more direct when I asked them before I made the decision. LOL.
If I'm this stressed about Kindie and elementary school I'm a little nervous about the future. LOL...kind of.
DS 09/2008
This discussion has been closed.
Re: F/U on school choice
I'm glad you're happy with your choice! And aren't you glad it's over?
I feel like we're lucky to have the options we have, and find the best fit for our kids. You really put a lot of effort and thought into this and I know B will benefit from being in the best place for him!
DD1, 1/5/2008 ~~~ DD2, 3/17/2010
LB, I am so so so happy it's over. We do have some great choices in our area. I've been very impressed. I know you did your research too :
DS 09/2008
You got to do what is best for your DS!
Your gut is usually right!
I hope your family is happy with the new school!