Expert: Tim Runner - 4/29/2009

Question
I had an issue recently with the school over a cup of water. My son has autism and we are limiting his dairy intake because of his behavior. I ask that he be given water at lunch and they made me take him to his pediatrician to get a statement saying he couldn't have milk or juice. I did,and I also I had to pay the bill because it was autism related and our insurance doesn't cover it. I took the bill to them and asked that I be reimbursed for. I didn't need it they did. I received a letter from them that said "thank you for getting the letter from your doctor we will keep it on file in the cafeteria." Although we did ask for this we are not responsible for paying the bill". I have not responded back yet but how come I am responsible? I didn't need or want it they did. Even after I get the "note" from his Dr it didn't state anything about juice(he just doesn't like juice of any kind). The way I see it, that just goes to show how much they really wanted the letter and how much attention they paid to what it said. I think they were just throwing around authority because I wasn't backing down from the issue. What should I do next? I want my money back! It was a waste of my time, my son's school day and my money. How come they can question me as a parent when I have the say in how it does and can affect his education.

Answer
I agree with you. You can file a complaint with your state's department of education. Many state's have their complaint forms on the internet. Don't file for Due Process, just file a complaint.

I wish you and your son the best,
Tim Runner, Education Advocate
Email: timrunner@cox.net
You can learn more at my web site:
www.special-education-answers.com
www.education-advocates.com (for DSL and phone)