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“I don’t understand what you’re trying to do here, Ms. Hatcher.” 

My daughters first grade teacher scolded me in the middle of a classroom full of 1st grade SDC students and a para-educator.

I had the audacity to ask that he make sure my daughter received homework regularly. 

Mr. ###, didn’t understand what I was trying to do.

Truth is, in the beginning, no one did.

Teachers, family, health care professionals all thought I was a bat sh*t crazy, in denial mother.  

My baby was non-verbal and considered low functioning, why am I asking for homework? Why do I ask so many questions during IEP meetings? Why do I insist my advocate from RCEB be present during every check in. What is the point of coordinating in home ABA goals with classroom goals? The number one question, “why must you insist on mainstreaming your child?”

Mainstreaming – when a student with special needs learns in the same classroom alongside typical kids with support from an aide. This was not as widely accepted 10 years ago. My insistence was based on my understanding that iron sharpens iron. 

Currently, my special needs daughter is an 11th grade, straight A, high functioning student who has become an autism advocate for her peers as a TA, (teacher’s assistant).

Moral of the story – don’t let anyone talk you out of your effort or out of the belief you have in your child’s potential or abilities. 

Special needs kids are full of wonderful surprises. 

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