Expert: Paul Johnson - 1/6/2010

Question
I would like to use a different autism specialist than is assigned for my son's school. The one I want is known for writing quality observations and making good recommendations. The current one is not well-thought of by most parents. The district wrote that they back their expert. The quality of the assigned specialist' observations and work is poor.

My request was denied, but other parents have told me to persist. I know for a fact other parents have done the same switch I want to do. Should I keep going up the chain of command to the superintendent to get the switch or consider trying the school board? Any ideas? I would hate to have the current person's contribution to my son's iep and his placement.

Answer
Hey Laura,

Thank you for your important question.

This question goes to the central idea of advocacy and persistence. Autism is currently spreading worldwide at an alarming rate and the population of Autism Spectrum Disorder children in the "system" has caught authorities unprepared. This means anybody and basically everybody who are involved in receiving services has joined the movement for Autism awareness whether they know it of not. This also means we will need to strongly advocate for what we need. If we have a loved one who is diagnosed with and ASD and have properly informed ourselves of the neurological condition, we are likely more aware of Autism that a percentage of so called professionals in developmental disorders. This is not to put anybody down, as I have no axe to grind or political agenda. I am simply reflecting the scores of family frustration of the inadequate understand of the needs of their child on the spectrum.

As an advocate it is imperative to push the system to provide the services your child deserves. I talk to professional often and basically once a week I encounter one that has read and studied all about Autism and have a poor understanding of what my son and I are experiences. Not all professional have the same commitment. You deserve one that has.

One last word: Remember that you are advocating not just for your son but for those that will follow him in the system that might not have to struggle quite so much because of the growth and changes made by your advocacy.