I know that many of us are on this forum because we are frustrated with the school system, need advice or even just support. There is something very wrong going on here. The more I am on this forum, the more upsetting it is. The actual number of diagnosed cases of Learning Disabilities is alarming. What is even more alarming is how many more are out there that have yet to be diagnosed. Just how many more children are out there like my 14 yr old son. He cannot comprehend what he reads, cannot do simple math calculations, just cannot function PERIOD. Yet, I am told time and time again that he tests “average or below average” and doesn’t qualify for an IEP. My son has also told me there are many kids just like him in his class. Yet, they don’t have a 504 Plan or even an IEP.
We all know how hard it is to prove that your child is eligible for an IEP - it is simple - there is the IQ point discrepancy method OR proving that your child is not making progress OR having your child evaluated outside of school. Even if your child does qualify, it is even harder to obtain an IEP that works and results in progress. You many need an advocate and/or quite possibly an attorney. Millions of dollars are sent back to the government each year because schools are claiming they didn’t need the funds. I am sick and tired of this overwhelming, discouraging, and sometimes expensive process. The question is why is this happening to our kids? Why is it happening to us, the parents? Why are so many children just getting “pushed” through the system? Since the 1970’s, why has the SAT repeatedly been “dumbed down” to accommodate today’s society?
I just had an idea. Who is one of the most powerful and influential individuals in this country? Why, Oprah Winfrey of course. I am asking all parents to email her show and share their story. She is always looking at ideas for future shows. If you choose to remain anonymous, tell them. I am very curious to see what would happen as a result.