AboutTim Runner Expertise Questions concerning autistic student special education: IEP, assessments, Due Process, mediation, resolution conference, federal law, CA state law, qualifying for services, residential treatment, special day classes, resource specialists, procedures, having your child assessed, adaptive PE, speech & language, non-public school, FAPE.
Experience I have been an education advocate representing students and parents for five years. My experience includes: representing my clients in IEPs, SSTs, Due Process, review assessment results for my clients and for other advocates, and mediations. I have represented clients with learning disabilities, autism, Downs Syndrome, cognitively challenged, emotional problems, learning disabilities, ADD/ADHD, and physical disabilities. I have also represented clients to County Mental Health Departments and Regional Centers. My clients range from pre-school to college students in California and various other states.
Education/Credentials I have a degree in Mathematics from the University of California with minors in Psychology and Physics. I also studied applied statistics in the field of psychology at both the undergraduate and graduate level. I have taught college classes, conducted seminars, written articles for various publications, and testified as an expert witness.
Question My five-year-old son is in a special pre-kindergarten class for students with disabilities. He is the only child in the class with autism. His teachers do not have any special training to work with him, although I think they do a great job. My concern is with what is going to happen to him next year. I'm not ready for him to be in an inclusion classroom, but I want what is best for him, and at this point, I don't have any idea what that is. What are my options? We live in Florida.
Answer Rebecca,
I'm pleased for you and your son that his preschool is working well. Before this school year is over, the school district should assess your son to determine the placement and services needed for next year. You should be able to visit the class they want to place him in before agreeing.
Since autism is a spectrum and not one thing, you need to learn all you can about your son's autism. You should discuss this with his doctor. You may need to get some outside assessments as well. Many medical plans will cover this.
I help many parents all over the country in your situation. I review assessment results and proposed placements and services (speech & language, OT, APE, PT) to determine if the school is making a reasonable offer.
I wish you and your son the best,
Tim Runner, Education Advocate
You can learn more at my web site:
www.special-education-answers.com
www.education-advocates.com (for DSL and phone)
email: timrunner@cox.net
