Hayden, MD

Not in the medical doctor sense.

Hayden's classification is MD, for multiply disabled. Every student with an IEP (Individualized Education Plan) has a category based on diagnosis and/or challenges.

It was recently brought to our attention that the district is implementing an MD program for children like Hayden, and he is one of the students they have in mind for this particular program. At the time of our recent meeting, the case manager did not have any additional information available.

We know the program is supposed to begin early 2012, and we know that they're probably going to use a former first grade classroom that is not filled due to lower enrollment. We do not know if this MD program will replace the time he spends in the LLD room in the morning. Currently his day is split between the Language Learning Disabled self-contained classroom in the morning, and in the afternoon he is included with the kindergarteners.

Both his AM & PM teachers know him very well, and they are fantastic with him (to say the least). We are concerned about the details of this program, the transition, and what this means for Hayden on a daily basis moving forward. It's unsettling and all I can do at this point, is pray that in the long run it is for the better. According to his kindergarten teacher, it should be if this is implemented well.

If.

However, we did agree that we would continue to meet every four weeks or at least have a conference call. I would like to inquire about this MD program again, and see if any more information is available. Conveniently, the (new as of this school year) outsourced case manager is only contracted for three days a week. I had too much going on the past two days to get a hold of her before she left for the day (at work we are crunched to get end-of-month billing processed for November, and the deadline was today). I understand the case manager is not back in the office until Friday. Tomorrow I hope to get in contact with the education consultant that sort of oversees everything. 

In other news, Hayden had several fantastic days recently. Saturday we had a long drive down to PA to see a college friend of mine. Shortly after we arrived, their new baby boy woke up from his nap and Hayden sat to hold the baby. It didn't take long for him to initiate play with the baby's older sisters (both younger than H), either-- they have met before but it's been at least a year and a half, since. Hayden and the two girls played very well together.

Sunday we had another drive (not as long) to go to my friend's daughter's baptism. Hayden talked a bit during the church portion, but overall he did so well I was nothing short of impressed. After church there was a reception at a nearby restaurant and H held out for nearly the entire length of the dinner. He pooped twice which was a serious pain for us, but his behavior was good and I will take poop over bad behavior any day.

Then, yesterday after school when I asked him how his day was or what he did he actually answered me! He told me his teacher's son came to class and wrote her name on the board. The teacher confirmed that did in fact happen! I LOVE that he can tell me bits and pieces about his day.

This afternoon we are leaving shortly so he can get his kindergarten vaccinations. Less than a week ago, the school was audited by the state and Hayden's name was pulled for not having up-to-date shots. I have doughnut holes in my purse and fingers crossed...