Nathan has begun his sophomore year. This marks our return to battle as his parents. We return to the fight for our "hidden child", the one that we know is "in there".
This new year brings with it a new resource teacher. Last year was the first time we've been dissatisfied with any teacher who maintained Nathan's special education needs and rights. Honestly I'm glad. Last year's teacher wasn't "part of the team". Nathan's abilities and best interests never connected with him. Good riddance.
Not all battles are new. We'll muster his teachers at his IEP meeting (Individual Education Plan). They'll be given a brief history of how far he's come. Then they'll be offered a chance to join the ranks of "my army". Many do so willingly from the start. Others see the righteousness of our cause after knowing Nathan in the classroom setting. Few ever refuse to join, but there are those from time to time who must be dealt with as "hostile forces".
Amanda will return to the nightly battle to access Nathan's considerable intellect in spite of his "disability". Hers is old fashioned trench warfare. It's "messy and bloody". Progress is measured in inches, but is undeniable. She fights on tirelessly. In her battles I am logistical support at best.
Some may wonder why I view my son's education in such militaristic terms. It's quite simple. His intellect and personality are held captive by Autism. They are "in there". It's just short of all-consuming, but it's worth it. He's worth it. He has no less right to have his grades and high school experience reflect his intellect, personality, and individuality than any other kid his age. This is the righteous goal of our crusade.
The summer break provides much needed R&R for all of us. Unfortunately, the war is not yet won. I'm not sure it ever will be. For now, we echo the words of Lady Macbeth "....but screw your courage to the sticking place, and we'll not fail."
We and those with character sufficient to join our campaign go once more into the breach.
I am glad that he has a new resource teacher. I hope she cares more about Nathan's well-being in education aspect than the previous one.
ReplyDeleteShould have told the previous one that if she doesn't have the passion to help her students then she needs another profession and to shove it LOL!