My son is a freshman with an IEP, and he says his math teacher told him – in front of the class – that she doesn’t like him. He feels like she’s watching his every move and it’s making him want to give up. I emailed her to see if she’ll be at the IEP meeting next week, but no response yet. I haven’t confronted her directly about what my son told me. Has anyone dealt with a situation like this? Any advice on the best way to address it?
That’s terrible! I’d bring it up in the IEP meeting for sure. If your son feels targeted, maybe they could look into a class change.
Uma said:
That’s terrible! I’d bring it up in the IEP meeting for sure. If your son feels targeted, maybe they could look into a class change.
Good call. I’ll definitely ask if switching classes is possible. He really needs to feel supported in school.
Uma said:
That’s terrible! I’d bring it up in the IEP meeting for sure. If your son feels targeted, maybe they could look into a class change.
Even just mentioning it might make the school take it seriously and think of ways to help him feel more comfortable.
Maybe request a review of his assignments to see if she’s grading him fairly. If she’s saying things like that, there might be bias in grading too.
Monroe said:
Maybe request a review of his assignments to see if she’s grading him fairly. If she’s saying things like that, there might be bias in grading too.
Great point. I’ll look over his work and maybe ask another teacher to review it if needed.
Document everything! Emails, notes from the IEP meeting – it could be helpful if things don’t improve.
Uma said:
Document everything! Emails, notes from the IEP meeting – it could be helpful if things don’t improve.
Definitely keeping records. I want to have everything in case I need to escalate it.
Consider looping in the principal or a school counselor if you don’t feel heard at the IEP meeting. They might help advocate for your son.
Valor said:
Consider looping in the principal or a school counselor if you don’t feel heard at the IEP meeting. They might help advocate for your son.
I’ll keep that in mind. Hopefully, the IEP team takes it seriously, but I’ll go higher up if needed.
A special ed teacher should definitely know how to handle students with extra needs. This sounds like something the school should address directly.
Teo said:
A special ed teacher should definitely know how to handle students with extra needs. This sounds like something the school should address directly.
I feel the same way. Special ed teachers should be prepared for challenges, not make them harder on students.
Teo said:
A special ed teacher should definitely know how to handle students with extra needs. This sounds like something the school should address directly.
Exactly. It’s a shame when teachers don’t give these kids the patience they deserve.