Thank you for the law ideas. Believe it or not, I’m attenting an all day Wright’s Law conference in Sacramento tomorrow. I’ve been wondering whether or not it will be worth it to go. I hope I’m able to learn, retain and make use of the information. It all feels so overwhelming. I keep reminding myself that the bottom line is that they can’t change his placement without my signature unless they take it to hearing and win. I don’t think that they will take it to hearing and I don’t think they would win if they did. They have too much to lose after the laws they’ve already broken. I think in the end it would cost them more to fight me on this than to leave well enough alone.
Re: Message Robin and Socks
Go. Enjoy. Bring it home and let it settle. More info is always better:)
Robin
Re: .02 cents + then some...
Rose,
Besides all the listening and note taking, do not rule out the opportunity to meet someone who may play a key role or who can introduce you so someone who will play an important part in your quest to protect your child. Listen to your gut instinct too while you are there, and during breaks if you feel it tugging at you to go introduce yourself, don’t ignore the opportunity. The worst thing that can happen is you meet someone, the potential for an opportunity to gain a knowledgable ally may become invaluable. I would wager there are going to be many persons in your shoes (parents), potential advocates, advocates, attorneys and others. I caution you to not “spill your guts” to everyone, but keep the issues brief and succinct, and as difficult as it sounds, without emotions (as they cloud issues). I know I will sound paranoid by saying this, but also keep an eye out for district people, it wouldn’t surprise me if they too could/would be in attendance. ASK people first why they are there, and what are their interests (nicely and politely), before you get started with your issues.
If I lived up there, I would also be pursuing assistance or guidance at least from the Pacific Justice Institute (http://www.pacificjustice.org/). They can be found at
PACIFIC JUSTICE INSTITUTE
P.O. Box 4366 • Citrus Heights • CA • 95611
Phone:(916) 857-6900 • Fax:(916) 857-6902
[email protected]
Brad Dacus is an incredible guy who got this started a while ago. I am not saying “go hire an attorney”. However, they are very interested in working with a variety of issues, one of them includes Parents’ Rights. Anyway, I would wager if they aren’t involved with the seminar, they will probably have people there attending. Call and see if you can reach Brad or someone who works with them and ask if they are going to this seminar. Maybe you can even make an appointment to speak with someone who is familiar with education laws and ask for a consultation meeting to see if they have any input or ideas for you.
I’ve gone the route alone (with my wife, of course) of due process hearings, and I know if you could stop things at this point by getting the district to simply do it’s job and not get into fighting; however, if you can it will save you and your family substantial stress.
Anyway, having spoken and corresponded with Peter Wright back in the days of old (the heat of our own battles), when he just won his big case in Supreme Court (Shannon Carter’s case, prior to any web site or access to the www), he has done remarkable work. So has his wife, and all those who are now part of his advocacy group. There should be much to learn and gain from the day.
You may want to contact them to and ask if there is any way you can tape record or obtain a copy of the seminar in tape for review. Explain you are the parent of an ld child and you are in the middle of major issues with your child’s district. You never know what can happen if you don’t ask : )
Anyway, good luck.
Andy
You will learn a tremendous amount.
Always remember the special ed system is a big game. Once you learn how to play,you play it to your kids advantage.
There are specific rules of the game,they know what they are,they hope you don’t. In reality most parents don’t. This keep them trying to bend the rules to their advantage. Most often then not,once you start holding them accountable for their actions,their comments,their lack of providing for your child,they generally change their stripes way before going to court. If they can get away with it,they always try,most often they can,unless they get an educated parent who doesn’t allow them to.
Your kid’s lucky to have you,good luck.