Aspergers: To Tell or Not To Tell....

From: Emily Vogt
Sent: Thursday, August 25, 2011 11:05 AM
Subject: New Student Henry Vogt

Hi there.

We know you are very busy with the beginning of the new school year, but we thought it would be a good time to introduce ourselves and our son, Henry.  Henry’s past teachers have told us that knowing a little about Henry makes all the difference. 

In first grade, Henry was diagnosed with Asperger’s Syndrome, a high functioning form of autism.  He is a very bright kid but struggles with the social aspects of school. He is very literal and loves rules and routine. He is unable to lie but has difficulty understanding others intent. He tends to be disorganized (and we will continue to work with him to improve this).

The first few weeks may be a struggle for him as he adjusts to the new school and community. We’ve encouraged him to ask questions and pay attention.

He is well aware of his Aspergers and is very open about answering any questions, so please feel free to ask him.  Also, please feel free to contact us - especially if there is anything we can do to help support you.

Thank you!

Emily and Tom Vogt

This is the email we sent last year to each of Henry's teachers before school started. He was switching from a small Catholic school to a good sized middle school. Among other challenges, he would be switching classrooms/teachers for each subject and no one would know him.

Over the years, we have learned again and again - the hard way - that it is always best to give Henry's teachers a "heads-up" about the asperger's syndrome as soon as possible. We don't ask the teachers or school for accommodations (his grades are excellent) but it helps give the teachers perspective.  For example, one past teacher thought he had a very poor attitude until we talked to her. She had understandably mistaken his monotone voice, propensity to point out teacher's errors, and occasional inability to move forward as a problem student.

Last year, Henry asked me to send the email note. This year, he's not so sure. He's come a long way since the first grader who really struggled with all aspects of school - but I don't know that I am ready to let this one go. He tries so hard and takes school so very seriously, I hate the thought that a teacher out there might mistake it for a "punky" attitude.