Husband picked up new script for sertraline (more 25mg tablets) and note from PCP for school. She wrote just what I asked for:
To whom it may concern:
_______ was diagnosed with depression over a year ago. She is currently making some changes with medications. During this process, she may experience some physical and emotional symptoms. Please excuse her absences from school during this time.
Sincerely....
When I let Honey read it, I could see some different emotions. Relief, yes, there was certainly relief, but also something else, almost like "I am different" or "there really is something wrong with me" not sure, but I will have to talk with her about it.
I am strongly considering beginning the steps toward a 504 plan meeting. I have contacted her counselor with my thoughts. I need to get back to her as she asked "what kinds of modifications were we thinking of? Sometimes, we do some simple accommodations without a 504 plan.
I am not sure yet what to ask for, except some homework deadline relief (work done, but handed in at her own pace, allowance for medically necessary absences (work made up) and...?? I will talk with Honey about it when she is feeling better and ask her counselor for some suggestions as well... research, research right now-- that will help me a lot.
mental health blogs/sites
thanks for reading!
1 comments:
Okay here we go.
Yes, they can accomodate without a 504 plan. This is what they will do to avoid the time and money that comes with aquiring Spec Ed services.
IF you do not have a legal document, in writing such as the Section 504 (of the American disabilities act)paperwork; or an I.E.P.; then any verbal agreements for things such as homework reduction, extra time on tests, excused absences; are all things that will not have a paper trail.
Teachers for one, do NOT like having to accommodate kids in a reg classroom with spec assignments, etc.
My daughter had teachers fight and argue her accomodations even with the legal document in my hands. I had to remind them if they did not accomodate by following the I.E.P or 504 plan, they are in fact liable in court. Yep.
2.
Honey's reaction. Right on target.
With accomodations in hand, and a copy of her own 504 plan in her binder to remind teachers she needed more time on tests etc. : for the first year my daughter refused to use it.
She struggled her way through classes trying to keep up during med adjustments etc.
It was when a counselor at High School told her :
"No one knows you have a 504 plan except me, you and your teachers."
My daughter had the most difficult time needed accomodations and struggling with "feeling different."
Encourage Honey to take the help when needed, and remind her she does not always have to use it.
First things to accomplish: w that counselor? ask Honey what is the hardest part about being at school now?
For my daughter the first thing we got was a "late start" so she could get extra sleep.
Second, was extra time to read, and take tests.
Eventually it came down to no homework allowed to be done at home. Classtime was given to her to complete shortened versions of the assignments.
Sorry this was long. I hope it helps.
-Stephany
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