Transition

Transition has become a state of being for me and my family but I don't think that is terribly uncommon in modern times.  And I will readily admit, our pursuit of the American Dream has contributed to our state of constant flux. However, like any good parents we obsess over how every major decision we make will impact our ladies. And for the most part our choices have served us and our family well.  Our move to Texas allowed John to peruse an amazing professional opportunity, did not interrupt my career, and allowed us both to significantly decrease our daily commutes (mine went to nothing as I now telecommute).  But when we made the decision, what we really considered is how would this move impact the ladies: is Texas where we want to raise our kids, what kind of services will be available to Caroline, and is this a community where our family could thrive...

Well, it looks likes some of those questions will receive answers soon.  On Friday, we have a meeting with the local school district to find out how much support Caroline will receive.  To this point, we have been overjoyed with the support of the Early Intervention Program; however, as Caroline ages out in less than 2 months it is easy for them to give us what we want. I know Caroline will need services beyond what the school district provides but the early intervention is key to her success thus I do not want her spending her a large portion of her day in an environment where she is not receiving the intense therapy that she needs. Her Developmental Pediatrician suggested Caroline should be receiving 25-40 hours of therapy a week.  It remains unclear as to much of this medically necessary therapy our insurance will cover. What is clear is that if Caroline does not receive a reasonable amount of services from the school there are not enough hours left for her to receive the necessary therapies.

On Friday, when we have Caroline's transition meeting we will gain a great deal of insight as to whether or not we made a good decision moving to Texas. We will also learn if the school district will truly be a partner in providing my daughter with the access to education that every child deserves. I am cynical and am preparing for a fight but I would love to be pleasantly surprised.

Any tips from other parents who have successfully secured services through an IEP are more than welcome.