Update 2001

After the long process of testing through our school district, we met with our local school representatives. The largest part of the meeting was to go over all of the files that they had received and read to us verbatim the information from the papers that they handed to us (perhaps they are not used to people who can read on their own). After discussing the Preschool Psychoeducational Assesment report from the school district's Exceptional Student Education Department, they went through an Eligibility and Assignment Staffing Form where they clearly marked and explained that Ashton was eligible for the Autism program and they recommended that he receive Occupational Therapy (OT). That sounded like good news. However, they explained that because we homeschool Ashton, he could not be served the OT. We were told that if we homeschool we are in essence choosing to opt out of certain programs provided by the school district. We were also encouraged by these individuals to continue homeschooling because they felt that Ashton would be held back by attending the Autism program. We were also informed that the school district does provide assistance to children in private schools in the area.
	Following that meeting Steve called the Florida Home Education Foundation (HEF) to ask if they could qualify for services but be refused those services. We were told that under no way could a homeschooling family be refused equal access to special education services. Especially since they do offer these same services to students in private education (since homeschooling falls under private education regulations in Florida). Wendy contacted the school district's Special Education Director. He was very defensive from the moment he heard that we homeschool our sons. He wanted to know why she did not want to put Ashton in the Autism program. He then told her that the school's decision was correct. They school district is not required to provide services to homeschooled children. With conflicting interpretations of the law, Steve contacted the State Education Office and spoke to a Special Education representative there who agreed with the school district's Special Education director.
Ashton is currently participating in a Special Equestrians program in our town. He loves it and is doing very well. Joan is his coach and she works wonderfully with him. He also is getting some in-home Physical Therapy provided by the Elks Lodge. Mr. Bruce comes once a week to our house and has even come to our church to meet with Ashton since Wendy is now working as the music assistant two mornings each week. Mr. Bruce has encouraged us to fight the school district in order to get Ashton into Occupational Therapy. His muscle tone in his arms and legs is very poor and he has noticeable problems that the OT can help. Zachary is doing well with his suggested therapy. We enrolled him in the Bright Promises Preschool at a local Methodist Church and he bolts out the door every time we mention that it is time for preschool. He goes three mornings a week. This preschool is exactly what he needs.