The First Week of Sophie’s New IEP

posted Saturday April 16th, 2011

…ended much better than the first day of Sophie’s new IEP.

After a note from the lawyer and a reminder of promises made (promises that are now legally binding) the classroom aide began Wednesday. I met her; she has a good vibe. But don’t tell Sophie — she’s not supposed to know this is “her” aide. I think that’s a good idea.

“Hey, is there anyone new in your classroom?” I asked Thursday night.

“Yes,” Sophie told me. “I don’t remember her name.”

“Do you like her?”

Vigorous nodding. “She’s good.”

This morning I got this note from the teacher (to explain — it was AIMS week, a time extra help was needed more than ever, but not a typical week):

Hey Amy-
I just wanted to give you a quick update about the IA in our room. It has been a very different week but Sophie transitioned with it well. Her IA, NAME, is truly building a relationship with her. Sophie has tested her and she has been very patient and consistent with her. Sophie has responded well to her even through her testing. We made it through a full comprehension test yesterday and she really worked hard on it. We have had many activities this week that Sophie has been participating fully and totally because she has had NAME with her. I am looking forward to seeing how everything goes with a “normal” week next week.
I hope you have a great weekend!

Now I will.

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Tags: Filed under: Down syndrome, public school by Amysilverman

7 Responses to “The First Week of Sophie’s New IEP”

  1. So glad to read your update.

    And isn’t getting good news on a Friday afternoon the absolute best thing ever ?!?

    P.S. You so need a Standard Poodle.

  2. noan: i am in complete agreement.

  3. ah, thank you… feeling much better now.

  4. Wonderful! It’s more of a battle to keep the role of the IA secret so to speak as the kids get older but I think it’s a great thing to do!

  5. Oh that is SO good to hear. Haven’t been commenting here (bad blogger=me) but following along (sorry!). And thinking of you guys and hoping for some progress/resolution.
    xoxo

  6. Catching up after too long an absence from your site and am thrilled that Sophie has an aide! I truly believe it will make a huge difference in her experience — it really has for Cooper. Although (he’s almost 10, entering 4th grade next year) this morning he said, “Mom, do I have to have an aide in 4th grade? I can do it all by myself!” He ADORES his aide so I know it is not her, it is just his independent self emerging, which I love.

  7. lisa, i LOVE that!!!!

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