off topic; How Many Special Ed Administrators does it take

[Guest guest]

How many Special Education Administrators does it take to screw in a light

bulb?

First, a parent and several teachers have to get together and agree that the

light bulb doesn't seem to be working well. Then they need to put their

concerns in writing. Then another team is convened to look into the

situation. They too agree the light bulb isn't working but they want to try

some informal things; they dust it off, tighten it, juggle it and wiggle it.

Then if it still doesn't work, the psychologist has to test the light bulb

and see if there is a discrepancy between its potential and the actual

amount

of light its giving off, a medical doctor has to examine it for any possible

physical problems, then an SLP has to make sure it clearly understands what

its being asked to do (receptive communication) and is capable of responding

to that communication (expressive).

After that another team needs to be convened to talk about the results these

individuals have had regarding the light bulb. If all members agree the

light

bulb isn't working then they have to debate the many reasons as to WHY the

light bulb may not be working.

Some will say it was manufactured incorrectly, others will say it was

mistreated or neglected before it arrived, no one will admit to mishandling

the light bulb since its been in their possession. Eventually they will

agree

on one or more reasons.

The next step is to set up an IEP (illumination efficiency plan) that will

above all be cost effective. The school will want to replace the light bulb

with candles or oil lamps or they may even argue that the sunlight is all

that is needed, but parents will fight for the new extended life, bright,

shiny bulbs. Generally, they end up with a low cost used bulb.

Occasionally they will start with a new low cost bulb.

After that's decided, then and only then, is it time to actually attempt to

replace the bulb, but it will be several months, maybe years before this

actually happens. They always forget to write in an actual name on the IEP

as

to WHO is responsible for changing the bulb.