I agree with the advice provided, and would like to add (and have repeated a few that are VERY important)
1. Request the written ATS evaluation, request a response within 10 days
2. If the school's ATS evaluation is not realistic, then "disagree" in writing, and request an Independent Education Evaluation at public expense. The school will pay for an outside evaluation. Don't provide reasons why you disagree - so they can't work around it.
3. Identify your son's needs - you know him better than anyone - and write it out. Bring the list (typed/signed/dated) to the IEP (if not mailed earlier) that identifies his needs.
4. Let the school explain why he DOES NOT NEED IT (you are putting them in a different position. Rather than you having to prove it to them, they have to prove why it is not.) They will have to explain in a PRIOR WRITTEN NOTICE the reasons why they will not do it. In many cases, they will not want that in writing.
5. When making your list, identify some needs that are specific to his needs (and yours - as you are helping him at home).
For example, for our son w/ ADD/ADHD and an extremely bad case of executive function dysfunction (OMgoodness), we wrote that he NEEDED something that would synchronize with the home computer (Mac). We were able to get a non-profit to "sponsor" an iPad and we bought the $4.99 AudioNote App because it synchronizes the audio with the notes (typed, handwritten via stylus, or photo of bulletin board or ppt), in addition to synchronizing the iPad notes with the home computer --- in case he "FORGOT" it at school!
We are also asking for behavioral support to establish a reward system at school to "check and reward" his device & it's location, so he doesn't leave it somewhere.
6. It hasn't been easy - but find the rules & regulations for your school district - so you know what the requirements are to do XYZ. Then, make it hard for them to say no.
Good luck and best wishes - MissyC
