My son is a 9th grader this year. The first thing to decide is what the ultimate goal for your son is. I went in knowing that my son would be capable of earning a regular high school diploma as long as he had his IEP and it was followed.

Once that was clear I requested things I knew he would need based on what areas were difficult for him in middle school. I knew he would need support for note taking because his writing is poor and he lacks the focus and attention to take adequate notes. I requested a second set of textbooks for home knowing that my son would conveniently forget to bring them home when needed. I asked that I be notified 2-3 days before tests so I could help my son study. I made sure my son would have access to a Neo or Alphasmart word processor.

Our school system has a parent connect site that allows me to see his grades and assignments. I can see if things are missing or incomplete. The only bad thing is some teachers don't update as frequently as others. I also email teachers as soon as it seems there is problem. Most have promptly responded and been receptive.

I would make sure to have a contact person at the high school who can help you along. It may be a special ed teacher, counselor or even a gen ed teacher. My person is called a case manager and she has been a tremendous help.

I could go on and on about my son's experience so far but since I don't know where your son needs help, it may not apply. I tried to give you a general idea of some things that may help. Honestly I know I do more to keep my son organized and on track than other high school parents need to do. I still go through his back pack once a week or so to clean it out. Let me know if there is a specific thing you are concerned about and I can see if my son's experiences could help you and your son.

I don't know if you have Charter Schools in your area but this was the best thing that could have happened to my son. He goes to school everyday for 4 hrs. and kids that don't have Internet access at home are given IPad. Some kids have access and get pads anyway. He is in the special Ed program and in classrooms with no more than 13 kids. He only has to do geology and P. E. at home.

I hope the meeting went well. We had a harder time transitioning Jessica to High School, because she does not take change very well. Once we met with her teachers, and found that a couple of her classmates were making the same move, that helped. We went with her on the first day, and that seemed to help keep her calm. Now, she seems to love it.

We have received the same notification concerning my daughter, Jessica. I have met with the teachers, and asked them about it at our last IEP. They assured us that she would continue at Bartlett High School until 12th grade. After that, I have no idea what we're going to do. Is your children in County or City schools? Even though the school system is merging, it is my understanding that children with special needs will not be affected by the consolidation. I would recommend talking to your child's teacher and principal before Friday, just to make sure.