Special Education Newsletter Winter 2009

How can I be sure that my high school student's IEP is preparing them for a successful college, technical, or work force transition?

The main goals of High School students are primarily to be accepted by their peers, understood by their caregivers, and to be successful in their independent endeavors. For these reasons "standing out" with an IEP at the secondary level is to them the equivalent of having to watch "Bonanza" reruns for 8 hours a day. Many parents and students do not realize that colleges, technical schools, and the workplace do not accept IEP's after graduation. For this reason a strength-based IEP with a strict focus of Self-Advocacy and Self-Awareness strategies is the way to go. Many local colleges list these 2 skills as a crucial component for all kids to succeed and graduate. A successful Tech. Ed. Program looks for the same and I can't imagine any job where these 2 skills would hurt an individuals productivity. A solid secondary level IEP will foster and develop this skill set that is needed for the next chapter in your High School student's life without making them "stick out."

With the temperatures dropping, the darkness of late winter afternoons, and the monotony of school in full swing.....it seems like all my child wants to do is play video games. What should I do?

As a teacher and a parent I would be the first one to suggest physical activity, reading, puzzles, and even Legos as a way to spend down time but I've quickly realized that video games are most likely here to stay and can't be ignored. My philosophy has always been to show interest in my student's and children's hobbies which includes video gaming. If you also consider Dr. James Gee's, a professor of learning sciences at the University of Wisconsin, work over the past 4 years showing that video games may enhance cognition you may not avoid them all together. All vices in moderation......of course but I suggest becoming involved in your child's gaming world which in turn may make them more open to your interest and guidance. As with any successful marketing practice the types of games that are coming out for all systems are beginning to appeal to families. Perhaps choose a game with your child that fosters problem solving and creativity....and play along with them. You may even have a little fun and strengthen your relationship along the way!

I used to look forward to late Winter/early Spring and the arrival of warmer temperatures, tulips, and the smell of grass. Now I stress so much over PSSA testing and SAT's that when I turn around it's summer.HELP!

Make no mistake about standardized tests.....in many cases for students who learn differently they are more a test of endurance. SAT testing has a tremendous impact on college bound students with IEP's and can be an overwhelming mental and physical journey. Many school districts prepare extensively for the PSSA tests and SAT prep classes start as early as freshman year.......I would find solace in both. Maximize IEP accommodations on PSSA testing but talk with someone on your IEP team about SAT accommodations. Extended time on SAT's can double (and sometimes triple) the amount of time your child must stay in the testing environment. Keep in mind that the college board almost always confirms that accommodations being requested have been in place at school for at least 4-6 months prior to submission. Soak up the beauty in the change of season and remember that your anxiety.....may inadvertently rub off on your child.