10/10/97

How can I do better in school?

Q: I'm a high school sophomore with a learning disability.  My writing is terrible, I can't spell, it takes me forever to remember things, and whenever I try to talk to my teachers about it, they think I'm making up excuses not to do my work.  I get help in the Resource Center one period per day, but what do I do about my other classes?    

A: It takes a lot of time, patience and communication to implement an educational support program.  You, your case manager and your teachers will have to work closely together to translate your needs into acceptable workplans for each academic subject.  Here are some of the steps to take.

1.  Attend the Annual Review meeting about your special education program, where you will have opportunities to make suggestions for program modifications.   Your interest in understanding your special educational needs will not go unnoticed.

2.  Meet with your case manager regularly and enlist his or her support to resolve problems which arise in other classes.  Develop strategies with your case manager; then meet with each teacher yourself to work things out.  If you don't have a case manager, see the special education director or the principal about assigning one.

3.  Be reasonable.  Ask only for the modifications you need, and only when you need them.  For example, some teachers will accept tape-recorded answers to chapter questions for homework assignments, but will not allow you to tape-record answers on tests.  (They might, however, give you extra time in class for the tests).

4.  Use of a computer often helps handle the workload.  Try to arrange for computer time at school as needed.  If you don't have a computer at home, earn the money to purchase one if you can.

5.  Get organized.  Keep an assignment book with you and write everything down.  I can't stress this enough.  You're in high school now, a time in your life when building self-reliance and good study habits are crucial for your future success.

6.  Ask your parents and friends for suggestions.  Everyone has to figure out ways to work around their weaknesses and capitalize on their strengths.  Taking advice from others is not a sign of weakness; it's a sign of intelligence and purpose.

Please send questions or comments to bbruno@snet.net.