. . .but we're kind of hanging here ourselves.
We met with the principal yesterday. It was a good, rational meeting where all parties made their concerns known. The principal is hoping that our goals aren't mutually exclusive, but we're not so sure. She wants to help bring the teacher along in his experience. We say great--send him to training, but move Finn because there's no way that the teacher is going to be able to develop the experience he needs in a short enough time to help Finn this year. And will his heart grow three sizes in one day? I think not.
So next steps: the principal is going to observe in the classroom and talk to the teacher. We are to meet again on Thursday to see what her thoughts are. Meanwhile, Finn's OT is going to observe the three female teachers (we eliminated the other male kindergarten teacher just because the deeper voice and louder tones seem to aggravate Finn's SPD) on Monday. So we'll then see which classroom the OT feels is most suitable for Finn.
I'm not sure what to think. I came away with the thought that this is something the pricipal is willing to consider, but it's not a done deal. She made the comment, "Let's see what's salvagable." But then again, she also asked for the OT to observe and pick a classroom. Eamonn, on the other hand, came away from the meeting feeling that the change would take place; it's just a matter of time.
Mars and Venus in action.
But really, I'm going to adopt Eamonn's perspective. First, it's what I want to hear anyway, and second, he's usually a better at reading people than I am. I'm terrible at it and am almost always wrong.
So that's it. The Waiting Game is on. Meanwhile, Finn had two good days at school on Monday and Tuesday (figures), but then was back to "hating" it last night and this morning. I'm so desperate just to yell, "It's OK! We're going to move you and get you a great new teacher who will hug you and love you!" But of course, I don't know that for sure yet, nor do we know who the teacher will be or when this will happen. I just want him to have some mental relief.
In fact, I want some mental relief myself.
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6 comments:
Natalie,
Hoping with all my heart that this gets worked out for Finn and for you. We struggled last year with a bad teacher match for Madison and OT issues and would do it differently if I was given the choice. We stuck it out and battled all year. The teacher makes a big difference with sensory coping. Thinking of you guys.
Amanda
I haven't been to your blog in months, but am catching up with all the goings-on. Sounds like you have a challenge on your hands. I hope that there is a good solution within the school, so that Finn can start to enjoy himself.
It sounds as if you have a great OT--we've had some good ones and some mediocre ones. Yours knows her stuff! My daughter with sensory issues is now 10, so I've gotten to know lots of therapists!
I'm sure you already know that Kindergarten is not required in Colorado. If things do not work to Finn's best interests, perhaps he could attend a private preschool/kindergarten if one is available.
Hoping there is a solution--fast.
Can't you keep Finn at home until the decision that YOU feel fine with, has been made? They can't keep postponing it, so it would only be for a couple of days.
Mym
I am new to your blog but it is breaking my heart that this teacher cant warm up to his students. IT is Kindergarten for goodness sakes. My son's teacher had to have him on her lap and give him reassuring hugs bc he thought a tornado was coming. She said she loved teaching K bc she got to be nice and still coddle them. I hope it works out for him and you.
Robbin
Wow. I know part of what you are feeling. We had to have one of our first graders (we have twin daughters) moved to another classroom this year due to teacher issues. And the school gave me the run around and we had to wait about a week, all while my child was miserable in the class. After the move? Better teacher, much happier child and life returned back to it's usual chaos with less stress.
I hope the school works with you to accomodate your decisions. Finn deserves that and more! Good job at standing up for what you know is needed, so many parents just don't do that and let the school rule.
Fingers crossed, breath held, hanging on with you! I'm so glad there are alternative--some schools are so small that there are only two teachers per grade, and there isn't always a difference.
Looking forward to better times for Finn. Jane in MN
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