I am just scared that instead of trying to work within the realm of his needs, they (Clay County) are just going to try to stick him a room full of kids with special needs that may range across the WHOLE SPECTRUM of things and it will really set him back.
"normally" they don't mix diffident "types" of children with disabilities in the class rooms.
My daughter is a elementary ese teacher in Gainesville. Last year she had five children with autism in her class room, this year she has nine kids. To help her the school has para-professionals working with her in her class. Having the para's allows my daughter to focus on the individual educational needs of each of her students. It's not a perfect world, but i can tell you most ese teachers are there because they want to help those in need.
You will want to have realistic goals on your son's IEP. Communication is key with the school system, teacher, and other parents. If possible find a autism support group and join it. There are people out there that "have been there and done that" before you, and they are willing to help.
If you hit a brick wall with the school, let me know. I'll send you my daughters e-mail. Advice from someone on the inside of the system might help.
My wife is going to have a meeting on Monday. Right now they say they want to move him to a class for disturbed and uncontrollable kids....even though he did fine on Friday. I refuse to allow that. His teachers from last year are up in arms about it as well. He is far from disturbed and far from uncontrollable. We all know his potential and how he normally is. What happened on the 1st day of school with a full class is not representative of that.
I think a change of scenery is called for but it's not going to be to the class they are saying.
don't be a lay down-stand up and fight for the right thing like you are doing. Most establishments try to "cubby hole" all situations into one group. can't be done. fight for what is right!!!
My sister's son is very autisic. She has had her hands full for many years dealing with the school system where she lives. I believe she contacted the state and was able to get some help in the form of a person that comes and works with him every week.
At first he hated school, now he loves it. My sister saw something that she never thought she would see this year when he and a group of friends (they are all in his special needs school group) attended their prom. He has always been scared of crowds and noise, but they all danced the whole night! First time ever.
Keep looking for the help you need from your school system and don't allow them to do anything you feel isn't right.
