Lisa Valerio’s Blog

Obstacles:

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Let me start by saying that managing the IEP process is no easy task, but I want parents, caregivers, family members, or legal guardians to know that there are many resources out there to help you.

I thought that I could navigate through the maze and advocate for my son on my own, but realized by the time my son was three-and-a-half years old that I needed legal support. I never in my life dreamed I would have to hire a lawyer, but unfortunately I did. I learned very quickly that many school administrators and special education directors are looking out for what is “appropriate” for their jobs and their well being verses what is “appropriate” for my child. My husband had to remind me that the school district is like any other business—they are responsible for managing a budget.

So, even though the law states that our children are entitled to an “appropriate” education—you must prove what is “appropriate.” Because the district ultimately cares about their budget and will give our children only the bare minimum you have to truly advocate for what you feel your child needs. I had to remember—no one loves and cares about my child like I do. I was told my child with autism and apraxia (which was formally diagnosed by two separate speech pathologists) did not need individual speech. The district speech pathologist did not know anything about apraxia and could not answer one question I had about it. Also, because my son’s behaviors are more sensory related the district wanted to pull by son’s ABA, because he was a compliant child.

The list of obstacles goes on and on. But with the help of the many resources I have gathered, I now have the support I need to keep on advocating for my son—and I try my best to remain positive and not let the obstacles stand in my way.