My oldest son age 14 was removed from resource room starting next semester because he scored so well on his report card. The problem is the school did not take into account that the resource teacher has been helping him with his reading and assignments. He goes to resource to have his tests read, to get extended time, and study help. His IEP says he is a resource student. My question is since they removed him from his official resource class is he still authorized resource help? The school did this on their own, they did not call me our my husband. They called my son to the guidance office and asked him what he thought of dropping resource. Of course an impressionable teen would be willing to do this. The kids in school see resource as an indication that a student is stupid so of course if you ask a child do you want out what will they say? Once a student is dropped from resource how do they still get special ed help? Just trying to get a teacher point of view. Thank you for your input.
Re: Removed from resource suggestions
Once one has been identified with a learning disability, the availability of services is always an option with a formal reevaluation - in jargon this is called a “readmission after dismissal.” The previous letter was absolutely correct in saying the IEP cannot be changed (amended) without a formal meeting of the team, in which you must be contacted and your schedule taken into account. If moves were made w/o your prior knowledge (an invite to the meeting is considered prior knowledge) it is indeed illegal. If you were invited and reasonable efforts were made to contact you and you did not respond - the school’s move was entirely legal.
Hope this helps and the system will continue to work with you and your child.
Re: Removed from resource suggestions
Since, resourse or basic skills class is a special education class, the school has to include you, the parent in the decision of exiting that class. This would change the percentage of time in special education so the IEP would have to change. Why don’t you tell the school that you don’t feel that he should be removed. Are they remediating his reading deficiencies? If they aren’t, you will have to do so yourself. Don’t leave it up to the school to do it.
Lisa,
The school can not change your son’s placement without giving you prior notice and holding an IEP review meeting. This is in violation of IDEA. I would start complaining immediately starting with the resource teacher and work your way up to the superintendent. Definitely tell them that what they did was illegal and you would like an IEP review meeting to discuss any possible changes to your son’s placement. When given the option most kids will say they want out of special education. As a teacher I hear it all the time. Some parents give in to their child’s request, but most don’t. Stick with what you feel is best for your child. Good luck to you!
Laurie