The one-hour IEP is a recent and welcome development; previously Nigel’s IEPs took up to and over two hours. It was exhausting. Now that I’m homeschooling him, it seems there is less to discuss. Either that, or after all these years they’re more efficient.

The person who has known and worked with Nigel for ten years now holds the title of Regional Autism Consultant. She started out as a behavioral therapist in the early intervention program that I had Nigel in, and she took her current position a few years ago.

Nigel has not yet participated in his IEPs, but I hope to have him do that starting next year.

Does Nigel participate in his IEPs? I considered Nick in fifth grade but he would have missed class and since not much going on with it I changed my mind. But for Highschool he will be part of it.

Now with CAVA it is a phone conference and basically I am like the RSP teacher.

Holly and Jeff, thanks so much for the supportive comments.

I appreciate all of you!

I can tell you from personal experience that schools tend to minimize bullying on the micro level (that is, when dealing with an actual complaint).

More and more I believe you’ve done the right thing by homeschooling Nigel. You certainly seem to have upgraded his teacher quality (and I don’t mean subject matter expertise, though I’m sure that’s high too).

I know you go through a good deal of pain for Nigel’s sake. I have no doubt he appreciates what a loving, loyal and tough mother you are. You are an inspiration and an example to others – including parents “blessed” with only NT children.

Jeff Deutsch

I completely appreciated everything that you had said. I have never been a fan of an IEP meeting (almost felt like I was going to a funeral or a war instead of an IEP meeting). I think every parent can relate to these struggles, feelings, and treatment.