FIT@50 \ week 10

Tough Decisions: Right Reasons

Friday is the kiddo’s last day of school. He’s happy. I’m happy. It’s been a banner year, but it didn’t come without challenged emotions–mine.

The end of every school year includes an evaluation called IEP – individualized education program. It outlines his performance as compared to an expectation of established goals.

At the end of last school year, we all sat in those small desks and chairs to form an odd semi-circle of uncomfortable anticipation. School professionals reported their observations.

It’s a knife through the heart to hear your child “can’t” or “didn’t” or “shouldn’t.” The collection of educators were compassionate in delivering assessments, but the truth hurt. They recommended an alternative route to guide achievement more consistent with his ability. It was a hard pill to swallow, but we trusted them.

One year later and that meeting possibly included the best decisions made. The usual stress, depression and behavioral challenges associated with the former mainstream track were gone. He finished strong.

The cool, confident and funny kid we all adore remained that way. Reduced stress, meant increased learning in the courses more appropriate for his life track. Education comes in many forms – thanks to dedicated professionals willing to recommend the tough decisions for the right reasons, he found his.

“Everybody is a genius. But if you judge a fish by its ability to climb a tree, it will live its whole life believing that it is stupid.”

Do good,

Scott