1:1 aide process
Need honest feedback from parents who have been through this process.
My son is 6.5 and currently in a mod/severe autism classroom. I am currently trying to get him the support he needs at school, including a 1:1 aide. (Due to his behaviors and huge regression since transitioning from full-time ABA for years to actual school/classroom).
I first requested a 1:1 aide back in January. The district told me that in order to assess whether that level of support was needed, they would need to complete an FBA first.
We recently had the IEP meeting last Thursday to review the FBA results. At that meeting, I made it clear that I did not agree with their findings because I felt they greatly minimized his behaviors in writing. During the meeting though, the school psychologist verbally said multiple times that he is very very hyperactive and climbs constantly. They also acknowledged concerns with eloping and disrobing behaviors.
After the meeting, they proposed a BIP plan and gave me Prior Written Notice declining the 1:1 aide request.
I told them during the meeting that I would be requesting an IEE (external/independent evaluation) for the FBA (functional behavioral assessment) in writing, which I did immediately after the meeting.
Earlier this week, I also emailed the program specialist with the BCBA I selected for the independent evaluation so things could start moving forward.
Then today, the program specialist called me and asked if the “support” I am seeking for my son would be long term or short term, meaning the aide.
I told him ideally it would be short term because I hope my son gains skills and progresses so he can live a normal life, but honestly he has needed a very high level of support for a long time already, so I cannot say for sure right now.
He paused like he was thinking or taking notes, then said that was his only question and that I should have a reply by Thursday regarding my IEE request.
For those who have been through this, does this sound promising? Does it seem like they may already be reconsidering the 1:1 aide or gathering more information? I would really appreciate honest feedback.