We have had a few meetings to get us prepared and this week was our first look at the program we are considering. The night was termed Kindergarten Live. Owen wasn't having a good day. It was a Thursday which includes late therapies so we barely had time to get home and get the kids some quick dinner before making our way to the school. But once we got there Owen lit up and he seemed excited. We were all impressed with the school. It is only a few years old and seems small enough that Owen wouldn't get lost in the shuffle. The principal seems like a gem. We have heard fantastic things about her and her views on special education. There are 3 kindergarten teachers and each one went out of there way to talk with Owen directly and ask us questions about him. They all really expressed how they would love to have him in their class. It was everything we had hoped for.
The next step will be to do an observation during the school day and meet with the special education teachers. The program is center based (center based is having a separate classroom with strictly special education students and he would be with that group from K-5th grade) but he will participate in a regular classroom for as much as possible. Our goal is to have him in the regular classroom for a majority of the day and be pulled out for things like speech, OT, adaptive PhyEd etc. We feel like it is the best of both worlds that he can get the benefit of inclusion but also get that extra help he needs. We still have a ton of questions, concerns and things we want to see for ourselves but at least for now we feel like we are headed down the right path. We are hopeful, excited for Owen and thankful to be able to have this choice.
How blessed is Owen to have such a wonderful family. You are doing a great job, We're so impressed. Only the best for your little guy! As 'extended' family we couldn't be more proud of all Owen has accomplished and will continue to accomplish with such wonderful parents!
ReplyDeleteNo matter where he is, he will be amazing and capture everyones hearts! I second Brenda's comment...you guys are great.
ReplyDeleteMuch love! xoxo
LIKE! Your such a great momma :)
ReplyDeleteif only all kids had parent like you guys! You are doing all the right things. First, and most important is to meet the actual people that will be with Owen. The teachers are so important! It sounds like the school you visited is very excited to have Owen, and that makes such a difference. Keep doing your observations and see what your "mommy instinct" tells you, it is usually right on. Also, from my experience, fight as hard as you can to keep him in with his peers in kindergarten and even 1st grade if you can. After that who knows, but K-1st are so social and active and there is no reason he can't spend the day with his peers. Owen is an amazing and talented little kiddo and the challenge of a new setting will be big, but not more than he can handle. Be his advocate and let him shine!
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