IEP's and Consultation Services

I realized when I did my post about being prepared for IEP's that I left out a very important thing.  That is consultation services, direct services on consult model. Call it whatever you would like, if it's a service that contains any word close to "consult" it's a bad thing.  I don't know how "consult" services were explained to me for many IEP's, but the program specialist talked a good talk.  They list the services and next to each one how many visits and duration.  On paper it looks like a lot of services when you see all those numbers next to PT, OT, Speech, etc., but it's really just for documentation if it contains the word consult.

What I would learn when I requested all of my son's records would literally shock me.  Okay, maybe I was just clueless and naive. Maybe the way the program specialists through the years talked in circles and prettied things up convinced me it was something it wasn't.  I'm not really sure.  All I know is I felt duped.  I felt like I had been sold a product that really wasn't what it was.  Consult model means that whoever the provider is, let us use PT, never has to come and see your child within the classroom.

For example, The IEP would state 6 visits for 30 minutes per year and either be marked consult or have it written next to it.  The PT would call and speak with the teacher on the phone about my son.  Inquire as to whether they needed any support or assistance and that would count as a visit.  The PT never stepped foot in the classroom, but it was document that my son received PT based on that phone call.

As it was explained the PT, or whatever service you choose to insert, would work with the classroom staff and they would be implementing the services.  I'm not really sure how this qualifies as physical therapy, occupational therapy, speech or vision services. All I know is throughout my son's records I saw a lot of remarks regarding these types of visits.  And yet, when my son failed to meet goals it was always his fault.  It never had anything to do with the fact that his services were the equivalent of a chart review and phone conversation.  This is why you should be very mindful of your child's records.  If your child isn't making progress and the IEP team can't really account for why the student isn't making progress without blaming the student, it's time to take a hard look at the goals and services. I wish I'd known this  very early on.

Please know that I don't believe that every child is short changed in the education system.  I have just a tainted perspective.  I hear far too often about more children falling behind or about teaching staff or districts who talk about implementing things for students that never come to fruition.  It happens a lot.  As parents and advocates of these children we really have to be very diligent at staying on top of things.  The education system will not serve our children without our involvement and support.