At Ben’s last IEP meeting it was decided that a transfer to a non-public school would be best for him. He’s not learning anything right now because he keeps running away from the classroom and even with a one on one aide, it’s difficult to keep him safe.
Today we went to see the new school. They only take referrals from other school districts in the county and the tuition is paid by our district. So it’s kind of like public school but it’s autism specific. The school takes students from kindergarten all the way through job skills training. Students up to age twenty-two. There are only two elementary/primary classrooms. The room Ben will be in has five students. He will be the sixth. They offer all the regular support services, OT, speech, etc. They have a gym with a big trampoline, a treadmill, a ball pit, adapted tricycles, lots of stuff that Ben had to check out. They also have a piano and drums that the students can use. To leave the campus a student must have a staff member enter a code at the gate so there’s no worry about Ben running away and getting lost in the neighborhood.
They also have a psychiatrist at the school. Her fee is included in the tuition. I can’t even tell you how awesome that is. The med doctor he’s seeing now has twice suggested that we place Ben in residential care. NOT cool! We need a new doctor to oversee his meds but finding a pediatric psychiatrist that accepts his insurance has been a struggle. Now, the problem is solved.
He starts at the new school on April 30. That gives us some time to work on the transition. His (two week😧) spring break is ending and he goes back to his regular school on Monday. I’ll be asking his teacher and aides to write up a list of things they’ve found to be helpful, or not helpful, to pass on to his new teacher.
Another great thing about this new school is they only take one week at spring, two at winter and only three weeks in the summer. The day is shorter but the year is longer. That’s so, so much better for Ben. It’s also better for me. It’s difficult keeping him entertained for weeks at a time.
Overall I’m feeling good about this new school. I hope the transition won’t be too rough for Ben. Maybe he’ll finally have some stability and be able to learn his way. He’s a shining autistic star (forget square peg) and he doesn’t belong in a round hole.
King Ben's Grandma 
Wahooooooo!!!! That sounds awesome! All of it!! The school itself, the psychiatrist, the breaks – and not to have to worry about him in danger from running away. Wow! I am so happy for you and for Ben. Really fantastic! I hope the transition goes well for everyone. 24 days!! Yay!! 🙂 🙂
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We’re optimistic. I think Ben will like it once he’s settled in. Of course today he was ready to leave as soon as we got there. “Time to go”…” Get your backpack”…😂
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This sounds like a dream come true.
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We’re hoping so. Poor little guy has been bounced around 3 different schools and he’s only in 4th grade. He can settle in here for 10years if needed.
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Wow! That school sounds awesome! We have something similar here – it is a dedicated campus with areas for each specific need – adhd, asd, mobility etc. All the children who attend love the school and thrive in the surroundings. I work as a one 2 one in a mainstream school, and having witnessed both environments, I think your grandson will be so much better in the new school, it will benefit all of you. I’m so pleased, good luck with it all! 😀😀
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This school has been around since 1971 and at their current location since 1982. They must be doing something right. I’m hoping Ben will be happy there. Happy and learn and reach his potential.💌
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I really hope the new school works out for Ben – it sounds like they know what they are doing. Good luck! xx
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Thank you💌
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Woot! I read through this and thought, “how ecstatically awesome!!!” 💖💖. It sounds like a much more compatible environment, much more nurturing and appropriate. And the tuition is paid! That’s so cool 😁😁👏🏼👏🏼. I’m really, really glad there are schools like this; I think he’ll do really well! Sending over big hugs, warm vibes, and wishes for the best of luck! 🍀🌟🍀🌟🍀🌟🍀💙💜💗
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Thank you Dearest Dude 😘!! We found out that this school also offers swimming and equestrian. I have to figure out if that’s an extra or part of the curriculum. Still… freakin awesome!💖💖💖🙌🎉🎊
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Omg sweet! That is freaking awesome 😁😁😁👍🏼👏🏼🌺💞
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