districts for child with special needs near somerville nj ? Bridgewater, ? Clinton (Somerset: YMCA, schools)

[jcs]

Hello, looking to move into area with my 6 yo son, who could be categorized as high functioning autistic (or PPD NOS if you know the "lingo.") Want to be closer to family in Somerville. l will be moving from Mass. and am strongly considering Bridgewater, but as a single parent I might feel culturally and socially isolated. Any thoughts? Clinton looks interesting, at least it has a downtown you can walk around in, but not clear about schools. also find lists of clinton, vs clinton township confusing . Your thoughts appreciated. Jeanne

[saralee]

We live in Somerset County. I have an exceptional child. Currently in due process against board of education ... son out of school since November 2005. We go to court (AGAIN) tomorrow. The experience has been overwhelming, expensive and disheartening.

Having said all of that, I've heard very good things about Somerset (in Somerset County) and their special education services. I've heard that they are eager to work with parents, to work out what's best for the child. They must have considerably more funding than where we live.

Also, after confiding in someone that I could not afford to send my two boys to summer camp (they've both been coming to work with me), she informed me that Somerset had a program especially for single parents, and the camp program was $200 for the entire summer. My mouth dropped wide open. The Bridgewater/Somerville YMCA wanted $285/week/child, for 9 AM to 3 PM, no meals or snacks included!

Another thing ... for all the bad press Abbott districts get, that's where the money is. They are actually more accomodating (overall) when it comes to meeting the needs of children whom require special education services.

A website of interest to you might be http://www.asah.org/ Go to the directory.

Hope something in my reply is helpful.

Good luck on your move.

SL

[saralee]

This article that ran in TIME profiles two New Jersey schools that treat students with autism:

http://www.time.com/time/archive/pre...191852,00.html

[lee07062]

Hi - Did you ever find the info you were looking for? I can help. I know that Clinton has an inclusive school system and can put you in touch with someone who worked in the area as coordinator for those groups. You can email me at blee@pinnaclefinancial.com and I'll see if I can put you in touch with these individuals. If you have moved, hope you are doing well and selected Clinton - I love it here and thought you would too

[jeanne serafin]

hi thanks have not moved yet. will be in touch with you in the next month or so..interested to hear what you have to say. thanks again for your response. jeanne serafin