School Options Without an IEP

[Anonymous]

With the caveat that I'm not seeking medical advice, and not holding against anyone providing advice..

When a kid is normally good, academically bright, but has an outburst (uncontrolled yelling) - what is the best school option in Montgomery County?

I understand the MCPS process takes at least 90 days.

Called around a few schools and even the "special programs" seem hesitant without an IEP or diagnosis (which can take months as well).

[Anonymous]

Is the outburst a single thing, or is it a series of outbursts?

[Anonymous]

Not really sure what you mean--- if you want a special school or a school that gives you services you need to follow the school procedure for getting help - an IEP or some other services based on their evaluations. Public schools are, of course, slow and full of procedures that you must follow to get them to do something special.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:With the caveat that I'm not seeking medical advice, and not holding against anyone providing advice..

When a kid is normally good, academically bright, but has an outburst (uncontrolled yelling) - what is the best school option in Montgomery County?

I understand the MCPS process takes at least 90 days.

Called around a few schools and even the "special programs" seem hesitant without an IEP or diagnosis (which can take months as well).

Public schools can't deny your child access to education.

You can go to your local school, request an IEP and wait out the process. You're not eligible for a special needs public program unless you've gone through the IEP process and it's recommended as the least restrictive environment.

Regardless I would start with a private educational and/or medical evaluation to determine what if anything the issue is.

[Anonymous]

The PPs are correct. The sooner you get the ball rolling, the sooner you can get through it. You start by writing an email to the teacher, school principal and counselor requesting evaluation of your child as potentially having a disability that affects him in the classroom. Describe the issues and ask what their next steps and timeframe will be. They have to stick the the mandated timeframe, but bringing it up in writing shows that you mean business.

When you say you called a few schools, do you mean private schools?

Yes, even private schools with "special programs" are highly selective and highly sought after. You will not be able to skip to the front of the line there either without having evaluations from medical/psychological professionals. There is simply way more demand than supply... and plenty of people with money to pay the tuitions.

[Anonymous]

The mainstream privates would be an option only if you don't have behavior issues, with yelling I don't think that would work. If you were admitted they would counsel you out quickly.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:With the caveat that I'm not seeking medical advice, and not holding against anyone providing advice..

When a kid is normally good, academically bright, but has an outburst (uncontrolled yelling) - what is the best school option in Montgomery County?

I understand the MCPS process takes at least 90 days.

Called around a few schools and even the "special programs" seem hesitant without an IEP or diagnosis (which can take months as well).

OP, if this was just one outburst, it might be unusual and age inappropriate but may not indicate a larger problem. If this is a regular occurrence or you have other concerns, then yes, talking with your pediatrician might be one first step. If you have a kid younger than 6, then I would get on a waitlist for a developmental pediatrician. If 6 or older then I would get a neuropsychological evaluation.

[Anonymous]

OP - about two a week

[Anonymous]

Ask the school for a behavior plan for your child.

[Anonymous]

OP - appreciate everyone's advice. IEP seems the best route, but it takes a while. Was hoping there was someone tolerant on the Private School side.

[Anonymous]

Can you say more about what you mean by outbursts? What precipitates them, what occurs, what is going on at home. Age of child. History. Any other issues.

[Anonymous]

A geographical cure for your child is not the answer, OP. I know you want a fast fix for this, but please try to hang on and see this through.

[Anonymous]

No private except a SN school will be tolerant. An IEP takes a few months. Its easiest if you have a private evaluation and submit it.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:No private except a SN school will be tolerant. An IEP takes a few months. Its easiest if you have a private evaluation and submit it.

And don't think for a second that you can't get kicked out of a private SN school.

Also, OP if you're thinking of applying to SN school, you'll need to do an evaluation.

[Anonymous]

OP, I'm not clear. Where is your child now? If they are not yet school aged, you can have them evaluated now so you are ready for starting school next year. If you are in a private school or homeschooling, the school system is still required to evaluate a child through ChildFind.