Why on earth would they be? The meeting was about her and for her.

She is not there as a prop. She’s there, I assume, because participating in the process of building her IEP is a vital part of of learning how to advocate for herself as she moves forward.

I would hope that she would be encouraged to jump in, lead the way, comment and ask as many questions as she’d like! the meeting is HERS, after all.

As for drama, hell yeah she should take that class. So many of our kids thrive in drama. Whatever she wants to try, the world should be open to her.

Go, Sophie, go.

i think this is a worthy goal, but you might want to make sure it’s a good place for sophie.

i’ve taught drama everywhere from privileged private schools to foster care to juvenile justice (and mainstreamed special ed kids in my classes at an elementary with wonderful results). i personally would welcome sophie with open arms for what she can bring to an ensemble! however, the craziest (mean spirited) drama teacher i ever encountered was from the wealthiest school. some of my breed are nuts! and being “dramatic” types can mean they get away with way too much.

Bring Sophie and the lawyer (I’m guessing Sophie has appeared on the “big” theater stage more times and has more performance training and experience than any kid at the gifted academy). Gifted — that word bugs me, too. Sophie is also gifted, as Sam points out, in ways that really count — differently, but just as loudly. You’ve seen the equality vs. equity graphic with the kids on boxes, right? I love that you and Sophie are constantly demanding both. I am, too, at my school, and it doesn’t make me many friends in higher places. I see that as affirmation that what I’m trying to do is “right.” Act up. Act out. Act. And know that this teacher/parent/person who loves Sophie is one million percent behind you both! xx