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Home : 2007 : August : 29

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By GreatGrin

My first reaction, although I support inclusion, is...is the Gen Ed setting the least restrictive environment for this student? IF this student demonstrates the behaviors you listed, you are going to have parents complaining
about not only the safety of their children, but the effects of this student's behaviors on their child's education. Even with a one-on-one aide, these behaviors can occur, and if anything, you might have more disruption as he/she tries to intervene.
If the child demonstrates the listed behaviors it might be a sign that they are overstimulated and can't handle a large class setting

for long periods of time. What about weaning him or her in during the subjects he or she is really good at or likes? It sounds like the student is going to need a lot of social coachng so you are so lucky to have an aide there to help, but thestudent needs to demonstrate success in self control and following directions in order to participate fully. Start in small increments, rewarding the success.
IF the behaviors aren't demonstrated and you just need help working with the aide, give her an idea of what your lessons are going to be that week, discuss how she can be utilized to help everyone. Sounds like he/she is going to need to make accomodations to the students work as well. I would almost start out by letting her completely focus on the student, and let you teach, and as things get into a routine, both of you will naturally see how you can take a team approach to the class. Share your plans to start, and let him/her get an idea of your teaching style and classroom management. Watching can be a great learning experience.
One last thing-I would prepare the class with a peer awareness training. Talk about the student with whatever language would be most appropriate about the student. Will the parents be ok if you tell the kids the child is autistic? IF so, make it a teaching lesson about Autism. Chart a list of strengths about the student and be honest with the kids about what might happen and why. Most importantly give your class a plan in case something major, like a meltdown, occurs. I train our teachers to give their kids a key phrase-such as Take 5. When the kids hear the teacher say this they know to go to the other side of the room and not watch, OR in some cases, leave the room calmly taking their materials with them, and not making eye contact with the upset student. Then they retreat to a safe room so that the upset student doesn't have an audience and everyone is safe. You should establish a CARE Team or a teacher to back you up for coverage.
WHEW! Good luck and keep us updated!