An Overdue Update on Janey and the 504 Plan

After a series of meetings, Janey's 504 Plan is in place at the Middle School. She is doing great! Her grades are excellent and more importantly, she is proud of the work she is doing and the progress she has made. Jeff and I are so proud of her!

The process of finding her disability and then getting the appropriate accommodations in place for her is a journey that has been difficult and rewarding.



Here is what I have learned:
1. If you suspect that your child may have a learning disability or a behavior disorder have them tested. You cannot help them if you don't know what exactly is wrong.

2. Parents who have children with ADHD or any other disability need to get all of the information they can about their children's rights on their own. Do not depend on the doctors of the schools to give it to you -- they won't.

3. Don't be afraid to stand up and be an advocate for your child. The school officials like to portray themselves as experts (which some of them are) but the ONLY expert on YOUR CHILD is YOU.

4. Don't be intimidated by titles like Principal or Superintendent. Their titles don't make it alright for them to be rude or disrespectful. Remember who pays their salaries.

5. Keep records. Write everything down.

6. Don't be afraid to ask for help. You never know who might have some valuable advice!

7. Don't underestimate the power of your support for your child. Janey has shown us a side of herself that we didn't know was there. She is stronger, more confident and self assured because she knows that we have her back no matter what. That doesn't mean she can slack off -- she's tried that! It means that we believe in her and she continues to prove to us that we are right to do so!

Thanks to all that have helped us with this process. Your support and advice have been so wonderful.