RAVE. If someone told me 9 years ago when my son was first diagnosed that I would be here taking him…

And yes, I am fully aware my eyebrows look like 2 caterpillars mating on my face and I look like he**. Sleep hasn't been my friend recently.

Congrats! I'm a teacher and I've seen a lot of students enter gen ed classes. It is and should be a very proud moment for both of you, and an excellent choice. It may be a challenge, but there is nothing like kids seeing for themselves that they are fully capable of everything their classmates are.

Thank you. It has been a long journey to get here and I've questioned myself every step of the way and fought many battles with both teachers and schools but seeing his pride and excitement tonight I know I've done something right.

Such a proud momma moment ???

Congratulations! My son started general education classes last year in 9th grade. He was depressed knowing he'd be in special ed. He lasted 2 days before the teachers called and told me he didn't belong in there. He was so excited. It's been a long road too.

Congrats!! You're a wonderful mother!! And congrats to your son!! That's a big accomplishment!! ❤

@mmgarcia81

I teach an "inclusion" English class. I wonder if you could seek this out in a nearby district. Basically it is a way for students who have been in special ed classes to join a gen ed class. I teach with a co-teacher, and in my class of 22 there are 7 sped students. It is wonderful! Also, we never tell students the nature of the class, and frankly most don't know the difference between their classmates with disabilities and others. Inclusion is a fairly new concept and not all districts do it (yet) but it is wonderful. Personally, I have some not so positive beliefs about non gen ed classes because I think they can be detrimental to a student's self esteem and most will rise to certain challenges (with some modifications). This is why a co teacher that has a special ed credential is crucial. Good luck! And fight hard for what you and your child want! Just be realistic and take it easy on the teacher. I can understand how it might be overwhelming for him:her if they don't have the proper training or support from the sped department. As teachers, we often have to deal with whatever administrators decide, and your child's teacher probably meant it was not the right fit with the best intentions in mind. Keep trying until you find out what works for you both!

There is an aid in each one of his classes. They make it seem like they are there to help everyone so the kids with an IEP don't feel singled out. I'm frustrated with him though because I don't think he's asking for enough help. I feel like he's caught in the middle if that makes sense. He's advanced for work in the special ed class , but having difficulties in a regular class. I try to explain to him they are there to help him and modify his assignments as needed. I don't wanna set him up for failure.