Yesterday was the dreaded end of year IEP (Individualized Education Program) meeting for Brian. I say dreaded only because I have been known to shed a tear or two thousand at these meetings. We sit down with Brian's teachers (special ed and general ed), therapists, and District Reps to discuss Brian's present level of function/performance, annual goals, and special education services. Seeing it all on paper always makes the Autism part real. Jason has been out of town and so I faced the meeting alone. His teachers told me he is doing fantastic this year and that he has almost caught up to grade level (just under a year behind). Go Brian!!! They all say what an absolute joy he is to have around and that he provides comic relief at all times..he gets that from me :) !!! Next year he will remain in the Autism program (at a new school closer to us...shorter bus ride!!), he will continue with speech therapy (dang the lame "th" sound), and will continue to participate in a general ed class for part of the day. We are so proud of Brian...he has really worked hard this year.
ability noun, 1) capability, power or knowledge 2) skill, expertise
