Special Needs Kids - Schools - Wichita (Andover, Bel Aire: preschool, moving to)

[movinmomma316]

Hi there! I know this topic has been somewhat covered in bits and pieces in other threads, but I am hoping to get some great information all on one thread for myself and others in the same predicament!

We are moving back to Wichita after being away for 5 years. In that time we have had two children and our oldest son (3) has been recently diagnosed with PDD-NOS (high functioning autism) and also has other speech/language delays and sensory issues. Right now, I have him in an inclusion preschool here in FL that he is doing well in which makes me hopeful that he may be able to mainstream by Kindergarten.

SO my questions are - where the heck do we move to have access to the best and most nurturing schools and environments!?! I am open to all suggestions, public and private. I want him to be in a healthy social environment so that he can develop positive self-esteem and still work on his challenges. In addition, I have another little guy that as of right now is not displaying any kind of learning or behavioral issues, so I need to be somewhere he will be able to excel too when he gets to school age! Also, for those of you moving into the Wichita area districts from elsewhere with children with IEP's...did you find the district staff helpful, supportive... cooperative?? I have heard some nightmare stories from elsewhere.

I am especially fond of the idea of moving to Bel Aire and heard that they are building new schools out there. Any feedback about that?? New schools sound great, but will they be open and able to accepting special needs children?

Lastly, I need some suggestions on good pediatricians.

Thanks so much!

K.

[misdyl]

I'd say for the better possibilities overall, I'd look at a school system in the suburbs (rather than the Wichita schools.....nothing *against* Wichita, but the suburb schools tend to be a bit smaller / have more access to various programs/options).

The Andover (east side of Wichita) and Goddard (west side of Wichita) school systems are both excellent - for age typical kiddos, but also have great special ed programs.

Pediatricians:
Dr. Elaine Harrington is fantastic and I've heard alot of positive comments regarding Dr. Nichols as well.

good luck to you and your family!