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letters to the teacher
11th grade

Hello,

I would like to introduce myself, my name is xxxxx and my daughter xxxxx will be in your class this year. The reason that I am writing this is  because xxxxx has a mild case of Cerebral Palsy which also includes some learning disabilities. To help you as teachers and xxxxxx as a student I want you to be aware of this from the start. There are so many students which you are responsible for and I do not expect you to figure this out by yourself, so I hope this helps.

To be more specific, xxxxx was born with a stroke which affected the left side of her brain. Because of this, the right side of her body is affected and some cognitive delays exist. She has no voluntary use of her right hand/arm, it is considered a helper only. (She does everything one handed with her left hand.) She also has difficulties walking due to surgeries and will be using crutches until her leg has gained more strength.

xxxxxx has lived with this all of her life and as you will find out she is not a quitter. She has accomplished so much more than many have thought she would. She also does not want to be singled out and knows her own limitations. She has been totally mainstreamed in her classes but with some adaptations for tests if needed.

Below is what was written into xxxx's IEP last year. I feel that it is important for you to know what it includes and many times the IEP's are never given to you. I have also expanded by explaining what may help in some areas.

1. xxxxxx will not be penalized for being late to class. Right now she has balance issues due to surgeries and should not be in the halls during passing time, it is difficult to say when she will get full strength back in her right leg. Also, another student should help her by carrying her backpack.

2. xxxxxxx will have a set of books kept in her classrooms and another set kept at home.

3. xxxxxx will be allowed extra time for tests and tasks that require two
hands. Having a partner work with her when two hands are involved is a solution, especially when experiments are being done in Chemistry. She will let you know when extra time is needed for tests.

4. If needed, xxxxxx may use her notes on difficult tests.

5. xxxxxx is classified OHI (Other Health Impairment) which does involve some cognitive delays. Also, the fact that she tires easily due to concentrating on walking to and from classes and the weakness in her leg may cause some difficulty as the day goes on with learning. If you notice any problems I am more than willing to help her at home if she seems to be falling behind in the least bit, please let me know if you see her struggling.

Thank you for taking the time to read this and I hope it helps you understand some of the things which may cause xxxxx problems this year. If you have any questions or concerns please feel free to contact me at (phone number).

Sincerely,

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The information contained in this Children's Hemiplegia and Stroke Association (CHASA) Web site is not a substitute for medical advice or treatment, and CHASA recommends consultation with your doctor or health care professional.