QUESTIONS TO ASK SCHOOL ADMINISTRATORS TO EVALUATE YOUR CHILD'S POTENTIAL SCHOOL
1. What is the teacher-to-child ratio?
2. What special education program are available?
3. How is the curriculum set & how does it compare to regular classrooms in the same grade?
4. What is the success rate of children in the program moving to an inclusive setting?
5 . Do the kids have access to the same resources and extracurricular programs as "regular" students?
6. How often do children socialize with students in regular classes & how is it facilitated?
7. What's the protocol if my child's having an emotional day?
8. How do you handle kids who act out?
9. How open are you to suggestions from parents?
10. Are parents allowed to drop by for a visit, and if so, how often?
Having a child with special needs, you will have to make a decision as to what school will suit your child's needs. It is important to visit several schools and interview the teachers and talk to the parents because brochures & phone calls can't give you an accurate picture of how these schools can help your child. We suggest that you inquire several months before the start of the school year because most schools have limited slots available.
source: "The Autism Book" by Robledo & Ham-Kucharski