Hey

Hey all. We need some advice. Long post incoming.

My son is in a new district this year and going into 5th grade which is middle school here and we have some concerns and have a meeting in the first day of school. We have these concerns and are not sure what to do.

The main issues are a new aversion to noise and crowds. This was not in his last IEP from his previous district because he didn’t have these issues.

His new classroom is 22 kids with a main teacher, special ed teacher, and a para but from my understanding may not have all 3 in the room at the same time. We don’t feel he would have the needed support. Especially as he is typing instead of writing. And even then he needs support there.

There will be transitions from room to room for different subjects. Large crowds and noises here.

Large lunch room. Again large crowds and noises.

Bringing a computer back and forth. My son would lose his head if it wasn’t on his shoulders.

Lockers - his OT skills are at the level of a 6 year old according to his last OT eval this past summer.

Basically we want him in a smaller classroom with more support. How can we make this happen? I am honestly afraid that he would have a major meltdown if he doesn’t get these needed supports.

Can’t afford a lawyer and don’t know if I could get an advocate in time as the meeting is Thursday.

Please let me know if there is anything you think we should ask for in the meeting.