Question for parents whose children go to American School
I want some guidance from those parents whose children go to American School (ASD) even though they might not have gone through this experience personally but still might have an idea or have heard something.
I will be trying to get my kids into ASD when I will be in Doha and I understand that admissions in ASD are quite challenging.
My question is if my kids have an IEP (individual education plan) which is acceptable in any school in US, informing ASD at the time for applying about this IEP is something which would impede the admission?
I mean that logically, since ASD is an american school they should accept an IEP (their form also asks about information) but if told them before hand, they can refuse admission since they would consider this information for evaluation for admission and for any reason (shortage of resources etc)?
This IEP is not special assistance requirement, it is just a more demand of the class teacher's time for monitoring purposes for child's progress... so please help me, if you have come accross any situation like this one and what might be ASD's response on this, I am a bit confused on this issue?
Agree with Chocoholic. Both my sons go to the ASD. My younger one needed support for his English and this was identified at the time of admission. I dont think it impeded his admission.
I also dont think you should keep this information from them.
Lastly, I dont think the scramble and frenzy for admissions is anything like it was in 2007-08....a lot calmer now!
All applications are looked at thoroughly. Just because your child has an IEP at their current school does not necessarily preclude them for admission to ASD. The school has a learning support program where extra support is given to students who are struggling academically. Go forward with your application but tell the school upfront that your child currently has an IEP and what it is for.
Getting in to ASD is a real competitive process, and so is staying there as students need to maintain good grades (students who get C's are at real risk of being booted).
It would be worthwhile to check out other schools at the same time, just in case. Good schools in Qatar often have waiting lists. i'd recommend the DeBakey High School as one you should check out - excellent science based american curriculum.
Eve, that is completely untrue.
For many, many years only children whose father worked for an oil company get into ASD all others are out of luck. They would make up tons of excuses why they would not take other children.
I can't imagine why you would want to try to have your child admitted without providing the IEP. If your child needs special assistance, wouldn't you want to be sure that the school will be able to meet those needs?
And once the child is admitted, then what?... oh by the way, here's my kid's IEP?
Or would you just not mention it and have your child sit through a semester or two without help, while a new IEP is being developed?
You won't be doing your child any favors by doing this.
You need to provide the school with all records, including the IEP.