Hi, I live in the state of Texas and I was told you also live here. I’m hoping you might have some information about the rules and laws for the state. My son’s teacher unfortunately retired at the end of this semester, but before she left I asked her about my son and what the likely outcome will be for him next year. He is 5 years old as of 8/9/24. He currently has an IEP and is in ECSE pre-k/ kindergarten class made up of 3-5 years olds. He is non-verbal. I asked her where they will likely send him next year. She said they will send him to first grade special-ed. I asked what grades are in the class. She told me it ranges from first to fifth grade in one classroom. I am terrified to send my 6 year old into a class with so many kids a lot older than him. Especially since he is non-verbal and cannot tell me what happens each day. I asked his teacher if I could hold him back and she said no. So my question is do you know if it’s possible through the rules and regulations or the state to do so or if there are other alternatives I could ask for? Any information or resources would be greatly appreciated! Thank you so much!!
Answer:
So although there isn’t a rule that you can use to hold him back a grade you could consider in-home schooling, ABA therapy, or a specialized charter school/private school that can support individuals on the spectrum. For example, my program houses 18 months-12 years old but each patient is 1:1 and can provide individualized support unlike the school system. You might also want to consider discussing part time status if this supports her. A program we use at my business is the Unique learning curriculum.
So although there isn’t a rule that you can use to hold him back a grade you could consider in-home schooling, ABA therapy, or a specialized charter school/private school that can support individuals on the spectrum. For example, my program houses 18 months-12 years old but each patient is 1:1 and can provide individualized support unlike the school system. You might also want to consider discussing part time status if this supports her. A program we use at my business is the Unique learning curriculum.