What responsibilites does a school have to call for an evaluation under 504? My first grader was recently kicked out of her magnet school because of conduct issues. At the exit meeting I was asked if I had ever considered that she might have attention issues; this was the first time it was brought up to me. Although I knew she had attention issues, I was trying to work with her at home. Now I need a teacher recomendation for the school I am trying to get her into and I'm afraid her last teacher will give a bad report and ruin her chances of getting into this school. Basically I want something to hold over the teacher so that she gives a better report than she is likely to give. And yes, I may be trying a bit of blackmail, but there is a lot to the story that is too much to say here. Let me just sum it up by saying that they wanted her to repeat first grade and when I said no, her conduct suddenly went from borderline to bad (with conduct cuts for things like using 2 squirts of soap instead of 1) and I was informed that she no longer qualified for the magnet because of conduct along with a wink and nudge that if she wanted to repeat first grade, the situation might change. I was also told at the exit meeting that she might have attention issues and kids on medication make great improvements. Which made me wonder why they had never called for an evaluation.

So, how do you think I should handle asking the teacher for a recomendation? We have started therapy and are waiting for an evaluation with a psychiatrist. I tried to explain some of the situation with the new school, but I'm afraid it sounds like I'm making excuses or am going to be one of THOSE mothers. I just need some advice, Thanks

Quote