""
To what extent do you feel involved in the overall program?

Your Path: Circle of Inclusion Home Page -->Inclusive Programs -->Meet People --> Parents of Children with IEP/IFSP's -->feel involved?

Annalise, from Raintree replied:
I feel so involved in the Raintree program. We all need to be involved and communicate (parents, teachers, directors, therapists, and children) in order to provide the most nurturing and loving environment for our children. Raintree makes sense! I'm not used to being welcomed as an active participant in my son's school. Having him attend Raintree is so refreshing. I think that by involving parents, and by making them feel respected as a vital player in the child's life, cuts down on any friction that may develop between a parent and the school district. A parent pushes when she doesn't feel like the family's needs are being met. People end up getting resentful and upset and this only harms the child! Raintree is inclusive, inclusive of the whole family. Having mutual respect between the school personnel and families helps everything to run smoothly! Being involved means so much to me!

Bonnie, from Bright Futures replied:
I'd have to say 70%. Bright Future's encourages total involvement, but I just don't have the time to spare.

Brianna's Mom, from White replied:
I feel that I am involved to the fullest extent. If there is a question, or problem, I am a phone call away or a note will be sent home. I am asked to attend, and I do attend, all the meetings. conferences that are scheduled for my child. I ask questions and I get them answered. Even if they relate to her IEP or just about my child herself.

Christian's Mom, from Barkley replied:
We have been included in the process since the first day. We have been asked our opinions and have been allowed to express our concerns and have also received very helpful advice for day to day issues. We know that our opinions count because we see the results at home.

Debbie, from Bright Futures replied:
I can come and go whenever and ask when the staff needs my help. I love the staff and mostly they are genuine people who love all the children.

Devon, from White replied:
I feel as if I'm right beside him everyday at school. Not a day goes by that I don't get some information about his progress whether it be by word of mouth or just a piece of paper. The feeling you get knowing that your child is learning and doing exactly what he needs to be doing is an awesome one. Having a program like this with all the extras helps me as a parent get rid of some of that guilt wondering if it may have been something you did wrong as to why they have special needs. This program gives such support to parents. I know anytime I have a question or concern all I have to do is call or meet with the teachers and I leave feeling satisfied. I can tell you what Devin is learning everyday and just about what level he is on and what he needs extra help with. This comes from such great open communication lines through this program with the teachers. It is great to walk down the halls and have a teacher come running up all excited about something special your child has achieved. We all need an extra pat on the back at times!

Jane, from St. Ben's Preschool replied:
I make a point to watch my child play and interact with staff and other children. I participate in my child's IEP. I give him lots of learning opportunities that relate to themes of the month. I keep his papers and art work to hang on the wall to display it.

Kevin and Tony, from St. Ben's Preschool replied:
We have always felt as if we are a part of the services that Katie receives. Part of that may be attributed to our active efforts, but the remainder is because the staff at St. Benedict's goes out of their way to make us a part of the process.

Kim, from Barkley replied:
I feel I have been encouraged to participate throughout daily activities, and have been kept in touch through daily notes, weekly newsletter, and much encouragement by teachers to be involved. I feel the invitation is always open to be in the room and involved.

Mary, from Bright Futures replied:
Right at his time, I feel very involved on committees and by parent volunteering.

Mary, from Raintree replied:
I'm very happy with my involvement!

Nancy, from Raintree replied:
The driving force. I've been involved with service providers and teachers since he was three months old. Raintree is the most magnificent program! I only wish he could continue his elementary schooling there. No telling what my son could achieve with the understanding, compassion, and intelligence the staff at Raintree can provide!

Stephanie, from St. Benedict's Infant/Toddler Program replied:
I'm involved in everything.

Previous Questions     Next Question
 
Your Path: Circle of Inclusion Home Page -->Inclusive Programs-->Meet People --> Parents of Children with IEP/IFSP's -->feel involved?
Copyright © 2002, University of Kansas, Circle of Inclusion Project. Permission for reproduction of these materials for non-profit use with proper citation is granted. Please send your comments and questions to questions@circleofinclusion.org