Re: Re:recommend a McKay school

[Guest guest]

Hello April: Hi there my son is 5 year old entering kinder in the fall.

Coral Springs would be a bit far for my son, but I want to ask you in the

event that I ever consider moving to that city and/or if my son doesn't

fit into a cluster "exactly". His dianosis is PDD, has minor stims, good behavior,

excellent with math, but his biggest deficit is in the language/speech comprehension.

So this hinders him to be in a mainstream kinder. Also has lack of focus so

he wanders from his desk. He will likely enter into a cluster...at our

neighborhood public elementary school (SandPiper Elementary in Sunrise).

I saw your posting about Atlantis Academy school and had one question?Are the speech and occupational therapies offered on the campus and as part

of the school day? Or do you have to pay for his therapy at the school?

This is a big deal, since in the public school system my son would have these

therapies as part of his regular school day.

your input is greatly appreciated..thank you.

To: sList Sent: Sat, June 5, 2010 12:51:49 PMSubject: Re:recommend a McKay school

Our son will be entering third grade in the fall at Atlantis Academy in Coral Springs and he loves going to school there.This will be his third year attending Atlantis Academy for school/camp, and we plan for him to stay there through high school.April

[Guest guest]

Hello April: Hi there my son is 5 year old entering kinder in the fall.

Coral Springs would be a bit far for my son, but I want to ask you in the

event that I ever consider moving to that city and/or if my son doesn't

fit into a cluster "exactly". His dianosis is PDD, has minor stims, good behavior,

excellent with math, but his biggest deficit is in the language/speech comprehension.

So this hinders him to be in a mainstream kinder. Also has lack of focus so

he wanders from his desk. He will likely enter into a cluster...at our

neighborhood public elementary school (SandPiper Elementary in Sunrise).

I saw your posting about Atlantis Academy school and had one question?Are the speech and occupational therapies offered on the campus and as part

of the school day? Or do you have to pay for his therapy at the school?

This is a big deal, since in the public school system my son would have these

therapies as part of his regular school day.

your input is greatly appreciated..thank you.

To: sList Sent: Sat, June 5, 2010 12:51:49 PMSubject: Re:recommend a McKay school

Our son will be entering third grade in the fall at Atlantis Academy in Coral Springs and he loves going to school there.This will be his third year attending Atlantis Academy for school/camp, and we plan for him to stay there through high school.April

[Guest guest]

Hello April: Hi there my son is 5 year old entering kinder in the fall.

Coral Springs would be a bit far for my son, but I want to ask you in the

event that I ever consider moving to that city and/or if my son doesn't

fit into a cluster "exactly". His dianosis is PDD, has minor stims, good behavior,

excellent with math, but his biggest deficit is in the language/speech comprehension.

So this hinders him to be in a mainstream kinder. Also has lack of focus so

he wanders from his desk. He will likely enter into a cluster...at our

neighborhood public elementary school (SandPiper Elementary in Sunrise).

I saw your posting about Atlantis Academy school and had one question?Are the speech and occupational therapies offered on the campus and as part

of the school day? Or do you have to pay for his therapy at the school?

This is a big deal, since in the public school system my son would have these

therapies as part of his regular school day.

your input is greatly appreciated..thank you.

To: sList Sent: Sat, June 5, 2010 12:51:49 PMSubject: Re:recommend a McKay school

Our son will be entering third grade in the fall at Atlantis Academy in Coral Springs and he loves going to school there.This will be his third year attending Atlantis Academy for school/camp, and we plan for him to stay there through high school.April

[Guest guest]

Dear Ramona,

Speech and OT services are not part of the curriculum/program, but parents have the therapist of their choice come to the school during the school day to see the student(s) for therapy. The parent pays the therapist directly. We also have two wonderful therapists that are here two to three full days a week if you needed a recommendation.

Hope that helps.

dr. ilyssa hershey

atlantis academy

coral springs, florida

Subject: Re: Re:recommend a McKay schoolTo: sList Date: Monday, June 7, 2010, 10:52 AM

Hello April: Hi there my son is 5 year old entering kinder in the fall.

Coral Springs would be a bit far for my son, but I want to ask you in the

event that I ever consider moving to that city and/or if my son doesn't

fit into a cluster "exactly". His dianosis is PDD, has minor stims, good behavior,

excellent with math, but his biggest deficit is in the language/speech comprehension.

So this hinders him to be in a mainstream kinder. Also has lack of focus so

he wanders from his desk. He will likely enter into a cluster...at our

neighborhood public elementary school (SandPiper Elementary in Sunrise).

I saw your posting about Atlantis Academy school and had one question?Are the speech and occupational therapies offered on the campus and as part

of the school day? Or do you have to pay for his therapy at the school?

This is a big deal, since in the public school system my son would have these

therapies as part of his regular school day.

your input is greatly appreciated. .thank you.

From: April Alder <aprilalder@bellsout h.net>To: sList@ yahoogroups. comSent: Sat, June 5, 2010 12:51:49 PMSubject: Re:recommend a McKay school

Our son will be entering third grade in the fall at Atlantis Academy in Coral Springs and he loves going to school there.This will be his third year attending Atlantis Academy for school/camp, and we plan for him to stay there through high school.April

[Guest guest]

Hi Mr. Heifferon,

just like Ramona, I too have dificulties understanding why you are so negative to the clusters?

Ramona; every child diagnosed with DD will have to change the diagnosis at the age of 6.

If they diagnose him with "autism", he will have the right to attend a cluster program. If he does not get "autism", he will not be able to receive these services. It sounds like he is a great kid. Don't worry too much. Go to see his teacher every marking period (4 times a year) and become friend with your teacher. Invite her to your home and to his birthdays. A close relationship between you and her will make miracles in your kid' s life.

Liz

To: sList Sent: Tue, June 8, 2010 2:10:00 PMSubject: Re: Re:recommend a McKay school

Hello Mr. Heifferon:

When I was called at the end of his school year in a PLACE program I was asked if I accepted his eligibility be changed from

"developmentally delayed, OT, Speech" to "Autism" eligibility. Due to the public school's evaluation and his PLACE teacher's observation.

When I was in this meeting at his PLACE school office, it was someone hit me over the head and I was dizzy with these new findings.

I always thought my kids was just slower than others ?! who knew. I followed this up with my own personal quest. Took him

to a neurologist who confirmed he is on the Autism Spectrum. He has lite stims, like looks out of the corner of his eye at things and

waves/counts his little fingers when he is bored. That's as far as stimming. Had potty issues and very strict eater.

Has really good behavior and listens to you if he "understands"

what you are actually "saying". He does have the lack of language/conversati on, but is EXCELLENT with math, for a 5 year old.

EXCELLENT on the computer and great at reading your face. I'm floored by it.

But does NOT CONVERSE, just says 2 word utterances and

names things around him. Very accurately, too. He's affectionate and overall a good easy kid.

I was told that within a cluster he would have more speech therapy and more one on one teaching. Since he

has trouble focusing on non=preferred tasks. I don't konw what to do at this point. I thought a cluster was the

best thing for a child on the spectrum (He is PDD diagosed)... ..Any advise is appreciated. God bless all you parents

going thru this journey as well

Ramona.

From: Heifferon <gary00001msn (DOT) com>To: sList@ yahoogroups. comSent: Mon, June 7, 2010 2:42:55 PMSubject: RE: Re:recommend a McKay school

Hi Mama Bear,

Why isn't he going into a regular ed class with appropriate support? The cluster should be the place of last resort.

From: sList@ yahoogroups. com [mailto:sList @yahoogroups. com] On Behalf Of Ilyssa HersheySent: Monday, June 07, 2010 12:05 PMTo: sList@ yahoogroups. comSubject: Re: Re:recommend a McKay school

Dear Ramona,

Speech and OT services are not part of the curriculum/program, but parents have the therapist of their choice come to the school during the school day to see the student(s) for therapy. The parent pays the therapist directly. We also have two wonderful therapists that are here two to three full days a week if you needed a recommendation.

Hope that helps.

dr. ilyssa hershey

atlantis academy

coral springs, florida

From: Ramona H. <mamabear_sunrise@ yahoo.com>Subject: Re: Re:recommend a McKay schoolTo: sList@ yahoogroups. comDate: Monday, June 7, 2010, 10:52 AM

Hello April: Hi there my son is 5 year old entering kinder in the fall.

Coral Springs would be a bit far for my son, but I want to ask you in the

event that I ever consider moving to that city and/or if my son doesn't

fit into a cluster "exactly". His dianosis is PDD, has minor stims, good behavior,

excellent with math, but his biggest deficit is in the language/speech comprehension.

So this hinders him to be in a mainstream kinder. Also has lack of focus so

he wanders from his desk. He will likely enter into a cluster...at our

neighborhood public elementary school (SandPiper Elementary in Sunrise).

I saw your posting about Atlantis Academy school and had one question?Are the speech and occupational therapies offered on the campus and as part

of the school day? Or do you have to pay for his therapy at the school?

This is a big deal, since in the public school system my son would have these

therapies as part of his regular school day.

your input is greatly appreciated. .thank you.

From: April Alder <aprilalder@bellsout h.net>To: sList@ yahoogroups. comSent: Sat, June 5, 2010 12:51:49 PMSubject: Re:recommend a McKay school

Our son will be entering third grade in the fall at Atlantis Academy in Coral Springs and he loves going to school there.This will be his third year attending Atlantis Academy for school/camp, and we plan for him to stay there through high school.April

[Guest guest]

Hi Ramona,

Whenever you have a meeting or perhaps in this case it was

either an interim meeting or annual one, you must request a draft copy of the

IEP. Although the school might not like surprises they think nothing of

surprising a parent with something new. And if you are like me, you need to

digest everything before you can come to your own conclusions. It is also very

important you become familiar with the IDEA which is the primary source for

doing things the right way. Unfortunately by the time rules get interpreted on

the local level, some things might be stated incorrectly. This is the primary

reason you see due process hearings.

The autism designation does not mean you drop developmentally

delayed. It sounds like your son needs a lot of work on language. An autism

eligibility in itself doesn't mean anything because autistic kids are all

different. it may help him in getting services but keep in mind that your son

has unique, individual needs that are very often different than anyone else's.

You have to determine if your son can function in a regular gen

ed class with modifications or supports. The schools are mandated to provide

his instruction in the least restrictive environment and that means they should

make every effort to educate him with his peers (typical kids).

As far as school tests go, you have the right to know exactly

what tests were given, his scores, and a narrative explaining what the results

mean.

My experience with more speech and 1:1 becomes less in the

cluster class. My grandson had speech 1:1 3 times a day for 30 minutes. When he

moved into the speech cluster in K he had speech in a group. If there is one

thing the school does not want to do is give anyone 1:1. It is too costly. On

the other hand they are suppose to be  giving your son what he needs. Although

they have this real problem with simple math, if you place 3 or 4 students in a

speech class for 30 minutes each one will receive only a fraction of the 30

minutes. Add the fact that most autistic kids have a social deficit they learn

nothing form the other children in the class especially if they are on a

different page than your son. This is called a waste of valuable time but it is

cost effective. It isn't hard to figure whose needs are primary.

I don't like clusters. If your son can be educated in the

general ed class, go that route. He will be better off.

The cluster is a program that has little variation and is an

excellent example of trying to fit the glass slipper on every foot. The cluster

is not academic but specializes in teaching proper behaviors like taking turns.

It is very visual even for verbal kids. It only gives you a sprinkling of the

sunshine standards, only those that are a part of the program.

Keep in mind they are suppose address the childs individual

needs.

I think I just gave myself corporal tunnel.) If you like you can

email me with any questions.

Oh, one other thing. Get a good advocate!

From:

sList [mailto:sList ] On Behalf

Of Ramona H.

Sent: Tuesday, June 08, 2010 2:10 PM

To: sList

Subject: Re: Re:recommend a McKay school

Hello Mr. Heifferon:

When I was called at the end of his school year in a PLACE

program I was asked if I accepted his eligibility be changed from

" developmentally delayed, OT, Speech " to

" Autism " eligibility. Due to the public school's evaluation and

his PLACE teacher's observation.

When I was in this meeting at his PLACE school office, it

was someone hit me over the head and I was dizzy with these new findings.

I always thought my kids was just slower than others ?!

who knew. I followed this up with my own personal quest. Took him

to a neurologist who confirmed he is on the Autism

Spectrum. He has lite stims, like looks out of the corner of his eye at

things and

waves/counts his little fingers when he is bored.

That's as far as stimming. Had potty issues and very strict eater.

Has really good behavior and listens to you if he

" understands "

what you are actually " saying " . He does

have the lack of language/conversation, but is EXCELLENT with math, for a 5

year old.

EXCELLENT on the computer and great at reading your face.

I'm floored by it.

But does NOT CONVERSE, just says 2 word utterances and

names things around him. Very accurately, too.

He's affectionate and overall a good easy kid.

I was told that within a cluster he would have more speech

therapy and more one on one teaching. Since he

has trouble focusing on non=preferred tasks. I

don't konw what to do at this point. I thought a cluster was the

best thing for a child on the spectrum (He is PDD

diagosed).....Any advise is appreciated. God bless all you parents

going thru this journey as well

Ramona.

From: Heifferon

To: sList

Sent: Mon, June 7, 2010 2:42:55 PM

Subject: RE: Re:recommend a McKay school

Hi Mama Bear,

Why isn't he going into a regular ed

class with appropriate support? The cluster should be the place of last resort.

From:

sList@ yahoogroups. com [mailto:sList @yahoogroups. com] On

Behalf Of Ilyssa Hershey

Sent: Monday, June 07, 2010 12:05 PM

To: sList@ yahoogroups. com

Subject: Re: Re:recommend a McKay school

Dear

Ramona,

Speech

and OT services are not part of the curriculum/program, but parents have the

therapist of their choice come to the school during the school day to see the

student(s) for therapy. The parent pays the therapist directly. We also

have two wonderful therapists that are here two to three full days a week if

you needed a recommendation.

Hope

that helps.

dr. ilyssa hershey

atlantis academy

coral springs, florida

From: Ramona H. <mamabear_sunrise@ yahoo.com>

Subject: Re: Re:recommend a McKay school

To: sList@ yahoogroups. com

Date: Monday, June 7, 2010, 10:52 AM

Hello

April: Hi there my son is 5 year old entering kinder in the fall.

Coral

Springs would be a bit far for my son, but I want to ask you in the

event

that I ever consider moving to that city and/or if my son doesn't

fit

into a cluster " exactly " . His dianosis is PDD, has minor

stims, good behavior,

excellent

with math, but his biggest deficit is in the language/speech comprehension.

So

this hinders him to be in a mainstream kinder. Also has lack of focus

so

he

wanders from his desk. He will likely enter into a cluster...at

our

neighborhood

public elementary school (SandPiper Elementary in Sunrise).

I

saw your posting about Atlantis Academy school and had one question?

Are the speech and occupational therapies offered on the campus and as part

of

the school day? Or do you have to pay for his therapy at the school?

This

is a big deal, since in the public school system my son would have these

therapies

as part of his regular school day.

your

input is greatly appreciated. .thank you.

From:

April Alder <aprilalder@bellsout h.net>

To: sList@ yahoogroups. com

Sent: Sat, June 5, 2010 12:51:49 PM

Subject: Re:recommend a McKay school

Our

son will be entering third grade in the fall at Atlantis Academy in

Coral Springs and he loves going to school there.

This will be his third year attending Atlantis Academy for school/camp, and

we plan for him to stay there through high school.

April

[Guest guest]

Hi Ramona,

Whenever you have a meeting or perhaps in this case it was

either an interim meeting or annual one, you must request a draft copy of the

IEP. Although the school might not like surprises they think nothing of

surprising a parent with something new. And if you are like me, you need to

digest everything before you can come to your own conclusions. It is also very

important you become familiar with the IDEA which is the primary source for

doing things the right way. Unfortunately by the time rules get interpreted on

the local level, some things might be stated incorrectly. This is the primary

reason you see due process hearings.

The autism designation does not mean you drop developmentally

delayed. It sounds like your son needs a lot of work on language. An autism

eligibility in itself doesn't mean anything because autistic kids are all

different. it may help him in getting services but keep in mind that your son

has unique, individual needs that are very often different than anyone else's.

You have to determine if your son can function in a regular gen

ed class with modifications or supports. The schools are mandated to provide

his instruction in the least restrictive environment and that means they should

make every effort to educate him with his peers (typical kids).

As far as school tests go, you have the right to know exactly

what tests were given, his scores, and a narrative explaining what the results

mean.

My experience with more speech and 1:1 becomes less in the

cluster class. My grandson had speech 1:1 3 times a day for 30 minutes. When he

moved into the speech cluster in K he had speech in a group. If there is one

thing the school does not want to do is give anyone 1:1. It is too costly. On

the other hand they are suppose to be  giving your son what he needs. Although

they have this real problem with simple math, if you place 3 or 4 students in a

speech class for 30 minutes each one will receive only a fraction of the 30

minutes. Add the fact that most autistic kids have a social deficit they learn

nothing form the other children in the class especially if they are on a

different page than your son. This is called a waste of valuable time but it is

cost effective. It isn't hard to figure whose needs are primary.

I don't like clusters. If your son can be educated in the

general ed class, go that route. He will be better off.

The cluster is a program that has little variation and is an

excellent example of trying to fit the glass slipper on every foot. The cluster

is not academic but specializes in teaching proper behaviors like taking turns.

It is very visual even for verbal kids. It only gives you a sprinkling of the

sunshine standards, only those that are a part of the program.

Keep in mind they are suppose address the childs individual

needs.

I think I just gave myself corporal tunnel.) If you like you can

email me with any questions.

Oh, one other thing. Get a good advocate!

From:

sList [mailto:sList ] On Behalf

Of Ramona H.

Sent: Tuesday, June 08, 2010 2:10 PM

To: sList

Subject: Re: Re:recommend a McKay school

Hello Mr. Heifferon:

When I was called at the end of his school year in a PLACE

program I was asked if I accepted his eligibility be changed from

" developmentally delayed, OT, Speech " to

" Autism " eligibility. Due to the public school's evaluation and

his PLACE teacher's observation.

When I was in this meeting at his PLACE school office, it

was someone hit me over the head and I was dizzy with these new findings.

I always thought my kids was just slower than others ?!

who knew. I followed this up with my own personal quest. Took him

to a neurologist who confirmed he is on the Autism

Spectrum. He has lite stims, like looks out of the corner of his eye at

things and

waves/counts his little fingers when he is bored.

That's as far as stimming. Had potty issues and very strict eater.

Has really good behavior and listens to you if he

" understands "

what you are actually " saying " . He does

have the lack of language/conversation, but is EXCELLENT with math, for a 5

year old.

EXCELLENT on the computer and great at reading your face.

I'm floored by it.

But does NOT CONVERSE, just says 2 word utterances and

names things around him. Very accurately, too.

He's affectionate and overall a good easy kid.

I was told that within a cluster he would have more speech

therapy and more one on one teaching. Since he

has trouble focusing on non=preferred tasks. I

don't konw what to do at this point. I thought a cluster was the

best thing for a child on the spectrum (He is PDD

diagosed).....Any advise is appreciated. God bless all you parents

going thru this journey as well

Ramona.

From: Heifferon

To: sList

Sent: Mon, June 7, 2010 2:42:55 PM

Subject: RE: Re:recommend a McKay school

Hi Mama Bear,

Why isn't he going into a regular ed

class with appropriate support? The cluster should be the place of last resort.

From:

sList@ yahoogroups. com [mailto:sList @yahoogroups. com] On

Behalf Of Ilyssa Hershey

Sent: Monday, June 07, 2010 12:05 PM

To: sList@ yahoogroups. com

Subject: Re: Re:recommend a McKay school

Dear

Ramona,

Speech

and OT services are not part of the curriculum/program, but parents have the

therapist of their choice come to the school during the school day to see the

student(s) for therapy. The parent pays the therapist directly. We also

have two wonderful therapists that are here two to three full days a week if

you needed a recommendation.

Hope

that helps.

dr. ilyssa hershey

atlantis academy

coral springs, florida

From: Ramona H. <mamabear_sunrise@ yahoo.com>

Subject: Re: Re:recommend a McKay school

To: sList@ yahoogroups. com

Date: Monday, June 7, 2010, 10:52 AM

Hello

April: Hi there my son is 5 year old entering kinder in the fall.

Coral

Springs would be a bit far for my son, but I want to ask you in the

event

that I ever consider moving to that city and/or if my son doesn't

fit

into a cluster " exactly " . His dianosis is PDD, has minor

stims, good behavior,

excellent

with math, but his biggest deficit is in the language/speech comprehension.

So

this hinders him to be in a mainstream kinder. Also has lack of focus

so

he

wanders from his desk. He will likely enter into a cluster...at

our

neighborhood

public elementary school (SandPiper Elementary in Sunrise).

I

saw your posting about Atlantis Academy school and had one question?

Are the speech and occupational therapies offered on the campus and as part

of

the school day? Or do you have to pay for his therapy at the school?

This

is a big deal, since in the public school system my son would have these

therapies

as part of his regular school day.

your

input is greatly appreciated. .thank you.

From:

April Alder <aprilalder@bellsout h.net>

To: sList@ yahoogroups. com

Sent: Sat, June 5, 2010 12:51:49 PM

Subject: Re:recommend a McKay school

Our

son will be entering third grade in the fall at Atlantis Academy in

Coral Springs and he loves going to school there.

This will be his third year attending Atlantis Academy for school/camp, and

we plan for him to stay there through high school.

April

[Guest guest]

Hi Ramona,

Whenever you have a meeting or perhaps in this case it was

either an interim meeting or annual one, you must request a draft copy of the

IEP. Although the school might not like surprises they think nothing of

surprising a parent with something new. And if you are like me, you need to

digest everything before you can come to your own conclusions. It is also very

important you become familiar with the IDEA which is the primary source for

doing things the right way. Unfortunately by the time rules get interpreted on

the local level, some things might be stated incorrectly. This is the primary

reason you see due process hearings.

The autism designation does not mean you drop developmentally

delayed. It sounds like your son needs a lot of work on language. An autism

eligibility in itself doesn't mean anything because autistic kids are all

different. it may help him in getting services but keep in mind that your son

has unique, individual needs that are very often different than anyone else's.

You have to determine if your son can function in a regular gen

ed class with modifications or supports. The schools are mandated to provide

his instruction in the least restrictive environment and that means they should

make every effort to educate him with his peers (typical kids).

As far as school tests go, you have the right to know exactly

what tests were given, his scores, and a narrative explaining what the results

mean.

My experience with more speech and 1:1 becomes less in the

cluster class. My grandson had speech 1:1 3 times a day for 30 minutes. When he

moved into the speech cluster in K he had speech in a group. If there is one

thing the school does not want to do is give anyone 1:1. It is too costly. On

the other hand they are suppose to be  giving your son what he needs. Although

they have this real problem with simple math, if you place 3 or 4 students in a

speech class for 30 minutes each one will receive only a fraction of the 30

minutes. Add the fact that most autistic kids have a social deficit they learn

nothing form the other children in the class especially if they are on a

different page than your son. This is called a waste of valuable time but it is

cost effective. It isn't hard to figure whose needs are primary.

I don't like clusters. If your son can be educated in the

general ed class, go that route. He will be better off.

The cluster is a program that has little variation and is an

excellent example of trying to fit the glass slipper on every foot. The cluster

is not academic but specializes in teaching proper behaviors like taking turns.

It is very visual even for verbal kids. It only gives you a sprinkling of the

sunshine standards, only those that are a part of the program.

Keep in mind they are suppose address the childs individual

needs.

I think I just gave myself corporal tunnel.) If you like you can

email me with any questions.

Oh, one other thing. Get a good advocate!

From:

sList [mailto:sList ] On Behalf

Of Ramona H.

Sent: Tuesday, June 08, 2010 2:10 PM

To: sList

Subject: Re: Re:recommend a McKay school

Hello Mr. Heifferon:

When I was called at the end of his school year in a PLACE

program I was asked if I accepted his eligibility be changed from

" developmentally delayed, OT, Speech " to

" Autism " eligibility. Due to the public school's evaluation and

his PLACE teacher's observation.

When I was in this meeting at his PLACE school office, it

was someone hit me over the head and I was dizzy with these new findings.

I always thought my kids was just slower than others ?!

who knew. I followed this up with my own personal quest. Took him

to a neurologist who confirmed he is on the Autism

Spectrum. He has lite stims, like looks out of the corner of his eye at

things and

waves/counts his little fingers when he is bored.

That's as far as stimming. Had potty issues and very strict eater.

Has really good behavior and listens to you if he

" understands "

what you are actually " saying " . He does

have the lack of language/conversation, but is EXCELLENT with math, for a 5

year old.

EXCELLENT on the computer and great at reading your face.

I'm floored by it.

But does NOT CONVERSE, just says 2 word utterances and

names things around him. Very accurately, too.

He's affectionate and overall a good easy kid.

I was told that within a cluster he would have more speech

therapy and more one on one teaching. Since he

has trouble focusing on non=preferred tasks. I

don't konw what to do at this point. I thought a cluster was the

best thing for a child on the spectrum (He is PDD

diagosed).....Any advise is appreciated. God bless all you parents

going thru this journey as well

Ramona.

From: Heifferon

To: sList

Sent: Mon, June 7, 2010 2:42:55 PM

Subject: RE: Re:recommend a McKay school

Hi Mama Bear,

Why isn't he going into a regular ed

class with appropriate support? The cluster should be the place of last resort.

From:

sList@ yahoogroups. com [mailto:sList @yahoogroups. com] On

Behalf Of Ilyssa Hershey

Sent: Monday, June 07, 2010 12:05 PM

To: sList@ yahoogroups. com

Subject: Re: Re:recommend a McKay school

Dear

Ramona,

Speech

and OT services are not part of the curriculum/program, but parents have the

therapist of their choice come to the school during the school day to see the

student(s) for therapy. The parent pays the therapist directly. We also

have two wonderful therapists that are here two to three full days a week if

you needed a recommendation.

Hope

that helps.

dr. ilyssa hershey

atlantis academy

coral springs, florida

From: Ramona H. <mamabear_sunrise@ yahoo.com>

Subject: Re: Re:recommend a McKay school

To: sList@ yahoogroups. com

Date: Monday, June 7, 2010, 10:52 AM

Hello

April: Hi there my son is 5 year old entering kinder in the fall.

Coral

Springs would be a bit far for my son, but I want to ask you in the

event

that I ever consider moving to that city and/or if my son doesn't

fit

into a cluster " exactly " . His dianosis is PDD, has minor

stims, good behavior,

excellent

with math, but his biggest deficit is in the language/speech comprehension.

So

this hinders him to be in a mainstream kinder. Also has lack of focus

so

he

wanders from his desk. He will likely enter into a cluster...at

our

neighborhood

public elementary school (SandPiper Elementary in Sunrise).

I

saw your posting about Atlantis Academy school and had one question?

Are the speech and occupational therapies offered on the campus and as part

of

the school day? Or do you have to pay for his therapy at the school?

This

is a big deal, since in the public school system my son would have these

therapies

as part of his regular school day.

your

input is greatly appreciated. .thank you.

From:

April Alder <aprilalder@bellsout h.net>

To: sList@ yahoogroups. com

Sent: Sat, June 5, 2010 12:51:49 PM

Subject: Re:recommend a McKay school

Our

son will be entering third grade in the fall at Atlantis Academy in

Coral Springs and he loves going to school there.

This will be his third year attending Atlantis Academy for school/camp, and

we plan for him to stay there through high school.

April

[Guest guest]

Hi Liz,

Why do I not like clusters? Let me count the ways.......

I once asked the cluster teacher what happens if one of the

children fell behind  the rest of the children and she replied that the child

would not be abandoned and everything would be done to get the child up to par

with the rest of the class. I the reversed the question and asked her what

happens if you have a child who is performing better than the class. Is he held

back? Essentially she said yes because it would be a good review for the child.

To me this violates the rule regarding the individual needs of the child. The

teacher should have a lesson plan for each child in the class. The way you

would show individual needs are being met is to see them all on a different

page.

The Star Program has its own method of instruction which has

little academic substance. How about the child that can do more in the area of

academics? The program lacks flexibility. Children have different needs. The

school  needs to address those differences because a set program cannot do it.

I have always wondered if the school is doing such a good job why

is there so much paranoia. The attitude towards the typical child's program and

the cluster child's program is so different.

More time should be spent improving speech delays than teaching

the child to socialize with other children. After all, if the child's speech is

so much different, the other children will not want to socialize with him. When

the child turns into an adult the first thing noticed will be his speech

pattern. Speech first!

From: sList

[mailto:sList ] On Behalf Of Lizzie Berg

Sent: Tuesday, June 08, 2010 7:21 PM

To: sList

Subject: Re: Re:recommend a McKay school

Hi Mr. Heifferon,

just like Ramona, I too have

dificulties understanding why you are so negative to the clusters?

Ramona; every child diagnosed with DD will have to change

the diagnosis at the age of 6.

If they diagnose him with " autism " , he will have

the right to attend a cluster program. If he does not get " autism " ,

he will not be able to receive these services. It sounds like he is a great

kid. Don't worry too much. Go to see his teacher every marking period (4 times

a year) and become friend with your teacher. Invite her to your home and to his

birthdays. A close relationship between you and her will make miracles in your

kid' s life.

Liz

From: Ramona H.

To: sList

Sent: Tue, June 8, 2010 2:10:00 PM

Subject: Re: Re:recommend a McKay school

Hello Mr. Heifferon:

When I was called at the end of his school year in a PLACE

program I was asked if I accepted his eligibility be changed from

" developmentally delayed, OT, Speech " to

" Autism " eligibility. Due to the public school's evaluation and

his PLACE teacher's observation.

When I was in this meeting at his PLACE school office, it

was someone hit me over the head and I was dizzy with these new findings.

I always thought my kids was just slower than others ?!

who knew. I followed this up with my own personal quest. Took him

to a neurologist who confirmed he is on the Autism

Spectrum. He has lite stims, like looks out of the corner of his eye at

things and

waves/counts his little fingers when he is bored.

That's as far as stimming. Had potty issues and very strict eater.

Has really good behavior and listens to you if he

" understands "

what you are actually " saying " . He does

have the lack of language/conversati on, but is EXCELLENT with math, for a 5

year old.

EXCELLENT on the computer and great at reading your face.

I'm floored by it.

But does NOT CONVERSE, just says 2 word utterances and

names things around him. Very accurately, too.

He's affectionate and overall a good easy kid.

I was told that within a cluster he would have more speech

therapy and more one on one teaching. Since he

has trouble focusing on non=preferred tasks. I

don't konw what to do at this point. I thought a cluster was the

best thing for a child on the spectrum (He is PDD

diagosed)... ..Any advise is appreciated. God bless all you parents

going thru this journey as well

Ramona.

From: Heifferon

<gary00001msn (DOT) com>

To: sList@ yahoogroups. com

Sent: Mon, June 7, 2010 2:42:55 PM

Subject: RE: Re:recommend a McKay school

Hi Mama Bear,

Why isn't he going into a regular ed

class with appropriate support? The cluster should be the place of last resort.

From:

sList@ yahoogroups. com [mailto:sList @yahoogroups. com] On

Behalf Of Ilyssa Hershey

Sent: Monday, June 07, 2010 12:05 PM

To: sList@ yahoogroups. com

Subject: Re: Re:recommend a McKay school

Dear

Ramona,

Speech

and OT services are not part of the curriculum/program, but parents have the

therapist of their choice come to the school during the school day to see the

student(s) for therapy. The parent pays the therapist directly. We also

have two wonderful therapists that are here two to three full days a week if

you needed a recommendation.

Hope

that helps.

dr. ilyssa hershey

atlantis academy

coral springs, florida

From: Ramona H. <mamabear_sunrise@ yahoo.com>

Subject: Re: Re:recommend a McKay school

To: sList@ yahoogroups. com

Date: Monday, June 7, 2010, 10:52 AM

Hello

April: Hi there my son is 5 year old entering kinder in the fall.

Coral

Springs would be a bit far for my son, but I want to ask you in the

event

that I ever consider moving to that city and/or if my son doesn't

fit

into a cluster " exactly " . His dianosis is PDD, has minor

stims, good behavior,

excellent

with math, but his biggest deficit is in the language/speech comprehension.

So

this hinders him to be in a mainstream kinder. Also has lack of focus

so

he

wanders from his desk. He will likely enter into a cluster...at

our

neighborhood

public elementary school (SandPiper Elementary in Sunrise).

I

saw your posting about Atlantis Academy school and had one question?

Are the speech and occupational therapies offered on the campus and as part

of

the school day? Or do you have to pay for his therapy at the school?

This

is a big deal, since in the public school system my son would have these

therapies

as part of his regular school day.

your

input is greatly appreciated. .thank you.

From:

April Alder <aprilalder@bellsout h.net>

To: sList@ yahoogroups. com

Sent: Sat, June 5, 2010 12:51:49 PM

Subject: Re:recommend a McKay school

Our

son will be entering third grade in the fall at Atlantis Academy in

Coral Springs and he loves going to school there.

This will be his third year attending Atlantis Academy for school/camp, and

we plan for him to stay there through high school.

April

[Guest guest]

Hi Liz,

Why do I not like clusters? Let me count the ways.......

I once asked the cluster teacher what happens if one of the

children fell behind  the rest of the children and she replied that the child

would not be abandoned and everything would be done to get the child up to par

with the rest of the class. I the reversed the question and asked her what

happens if you have a child who is performing better than the class. Is he held

back? Essentially she said yes because it would be a good review for the child.

To me this violates the rule regarding the individual needs of the child. The

teacher should have a lesson plan for each child in the class. The way you

would show individual needs are being met is to see them all on a different

page.

The Star Program has its own method of instruction which has

little academic substance. How about the child that can do more in the area of

academics? The program lacks flexibility. Children have different needs. The

school  needs to address those differences because a set program cannot do it.

I have always wondered if the school is doing such a good job why

is there so much paranoia. The attitude towards the typical child's program and

the cluster child's program is so different.

More time should be spent improving speech delays than teaching

the child to socialize with other children. After all, if the child's speech is

so much different, the other children will not want to socialize with him. When

the child turns into an adult the first thing noticed will be his speech

pattern. Speech first!

From: sList

[mailto:sList ] On Behalf Of Lizzie Berg

Sent: Tuesday, June 08, 2010 7:21 PM

To: sList

Subject: Re: Re:recommend a McKay school

Hi Mr. Heifferon,

just like Ramona, I too have

dificulties understanding why you are so negative to the clusters?

Ramona; every child diagnosed with DD will have to change

the diagnosis at the age of 6.

If they diagnose him with " autism " , he will have

the right to attend a cluster program. If he does not get " autism " ,

he will not be able to receive these services. It sounds like he is a great

kid. Don't worry too much. Go to see his teacher every marking period (4 times

a year) and become friend with your teacher. Invite her to your home and to his

birthdays. A close relationship between you and her will make miracles in your

kid' s life.

Liz

From: Ramona H.

To: sList

Sent: Tue, June 8, 2010 2:10:00 PM

Subject: Re: Re:recommend a McKay school

Hello Mr. Heifferon:

When I was called at the end of his school year in a PLACE

program I was asked if I accepted his eligibility be changed from

" developmentally delayed, OT, Speech " to

" Autism " eligibility. Due to the public school's evaluation and

his PLACE teacher's observation.

When I was in this meeting at his PLACE school office, it

was someone hit me over the head and I was dizzy with these new findings.

I always thought my kids was just slower than others ?!

who knew. I followed this up with my own personal quest. Took him

to a neurologist who confirmed he is on the Autism

Spectrum. He has lite stims, like looks out of the corner of his eye at

things and

waves/counts his little fingers when he is bored.

That's as far as stimming. Had potty issues and very strict eater.

Has really good behavior and listens to you if he

" understands "

what you are actually " saying " . He does

have the lack of language/conversati on, but is EXCELLENT with math, for a 5

year old.

EXCELLENT on the computer and great at reading your face.

I'm floored by it.

But does NOT CONVERSE, just says 2 word utterances and

names things around him. Very accurately, too.

He's affectionate and overall a good easy kid.

I was told that within a cluster he would have more speech

therapy and more one on one teaching. Since he

has trouble focusing on non=preferred tasks. I

don't konw what to do at this point. I thought a cluster was the

best thing for a child on the spectrum (He is PDD

diagosed)... ..Any advise is appreciated. God bless all you parents

going thru this journey as well

Ramona.

From: Heifferon

<gary00001msn (DOT) com>

To: sList@ yahoogroups. com

Sent: Mon, June 7, 2010 2:42:55 PM

Subject: RE: Re:recommend a McKay school

Hi Mama Bear,

Why isn't he going into a regular ed

class with appropriate support? The cluster should be the place of last resort.

From:

sList@ yahoogroups. com [mailto:sList @yahoogroups. com] On

Behalf Of Ilyssa Hershey

Sent: Monday, June 07, 2010 12:05 PM

To: sList@ yahoogroups. com

Subject: Re: Re:recommend a McKay school

Dear

Ramona,

Speech

and OT services are not part of the curriculum/program, but parents have the

therapist of their choice come to the school during the school day to see the

student(s) for therapy. The parent pays the therapist directly. We also

have two wonderful therapists that are here two to three full days a week if

you needed a recommendation.

Hope

that helps.

dr. ilyssa hershey

atlantis academy

coral springs, florida

From: Ramona H. <mamabear_sunrise@ yahoo.com>

Subject: Re: Re:recommend a McKay school

To: sList@ yahoogroups. com

Date: Monday, June 7, 2010, 10:52 AM

Hello

April: Hi there my son is 5 year old entering kinder in the fall.

Coral

Springs would be a bit far for my son, but I want to ask you in the

event

that I ever consider moving to that city and/or if my son doesn't

fit

into a cluster " exactly " . His dianosis is PDD, has minor

stims, good behavior,

excellent

with math, but his biggest deficit is in the language/speech comprehension.

So

this hinders him to be in a mainstream kinder. Also has lack of focus

so

he

wanders from his desk. He will likely enter into a cluster...at

our

neighborhood

public elementary school (SandPiper Elementary in Sunrise).

I

saw your posting about Atlantis Academy school and had one question?

Are the speech and occupational therapies offered on the campus and as part

of

the school day? Or do you have to pay for his therapy at the school?

This

is a big deal, since in the public school system my son would have these

therapies

as part of his regular school day.

your

input is greatly appreciated. .thank you.

From:

April Alder <aprilalder@bellsout h.net>

To: sList@ yahoogroups. com

Sent: Sat, June 5, 2010 12:51:49 PM

Subject: Re:recommend a McKay school

Our

son will be entering third grade in the fall at Atlantis Academy in

Coral Springs and he loves going to school there.

This will be his third year attending Atlantis Academy for school/camp, and

we plan for him to stay there through high school.

April