Are there guidelines when schools call a meeting to inform Parents of potential Asperger's in their child?

Question

Four weeks ago we were stunned when out of nowhere the school called us in for a brief 25 minute meeting resulted in their "urging" us to take our son to a neurologist to be tested for Asperger's. We were aware of some behavior issues, but nothing to indicate Asperger's. Our son has not had any behavior plan, such as a 504 plan. He has never had a detention or suspension. He gets mostly A's, one B on his report card. The school asked about our health care and if we had access to mental health services. The school psychologist told us hat she would compile some information for us to use as we pursued doctors. We were escorted out and haven't heard a word since. Shouldn't the school afford more time to discuss such a serious issue? Doesn't the school have some obligation to the student that if they determine that there is a need that it must be addressed in a timely manner?

Answer 1

Schools do not diagnose...only a doctor can.

If they have given you this information, they have done so for you  to have your son assessed by a doctor.

Although you may feel completely blindsided by this information, people who work in a school building often see the "signs" long before unsuspecting parents do.

Once diagnosed, what ever it may be, then an initial evaluation at the special education level will begin - then the time lines you mentioned kick in.

You may want to check out "Navigating the Special Education Maze" at your local library.

Answer 2

It is not the school's role to make sure your son gets diagnosed. When they noticed something that they felt suggested he might have Asperger's syndrome they did the right thing by talking to you about it and recommending to you to take your son to a neurologist. It really is your responsibility as the boy's parents to actually take your son there to find out if there really is a problem. If you are still waiting for the info from the school psychologist, have you tried calling her and asking her about it? You have to seek information and help, it won't all just come to you.

I think it's your role to take the next step. If your son does get diagnosed with Asperger's syndrome (or something else) then there will be a reason to sit down with the school staff and discuss things further. Until then, there really isn't all that much they can discuss with you.

It isn't unusual for a child with Asperger's syndrome to get good grades. Most aspies are above average intelligent, but struggle a lot with social skills and sometimes motor skills, sensory sensitivity or other problems. I have Asperger's syndrome myself and when I was in school I was a straight A student, but had a lot of problems due to lack of social skills, poor motor skills and sensitivity to light.

Answer 3

"Once diagnosed, what ever it may be, then an initial evaluation at the special education level will begin - then the time lines you mentioned kick in."

This is not true, you do not have to wait for a diagnosis.  It is true that you can take your child to your doctor and they may refer you to a neurologist or neuropsychologist who can give a possible diagnosis but if the school is concerned they can initiate special education assessments at any time.  Also, as parents you can submit a request in writing for a special education assessment for your son.  After you submit the request, the school has 15 days to give you an assessment plan which would list the tests they plan to give your child.  Once you sign the assessment plan and return it the school has 50 days to hold an IEP (individualized education plan) meeting.  At this time they would go over all of the assessment reports and you would be able to give feedback as well and then develop a plan for your child.  A good site to go to for information is Wright's Law.  There is a good sample letter to request assessment at the Protection and Advocacy Incorporated website: http://www.pai-ca.org/

It can be a long and winding road.  Good Luck.

Answer 4

Schools ONLY have to address this issure by determining if child qualifies for special ed.

And since they want you to do all this, then YES, THEY are suppose to be doing all this.

THEY want the testing by a dr, THEY are suppose to pay for it.

I would think twice about this. Do YOU think he has aspergers?

I think it is illegal for them to be pushing you like this, it is YOUR decision, not THEIRS.

THis is fishy, I wouldn't trust them.

Answer 5

Obviously, the school noticed some indicators for Asperger's, but it is a medical diagnosis not educational requiring a doctor. I'm sure they felt that you should be informed of what they suspect so you could seek early treatment.

It is not their job to follow up. If you want to come back to them with whatever diagnosis you receive, then you can have them get involved. Medical diagnoses must be confirmed or eliminated before the school can assess for an IEP or 504 plan.

Grades of As or occasional Bs are not unusual for Asperger students.

A 504 plan is not a behavior plan - just so you'll know.