My son is in HS and attends a public performing arts school. They are taking an overnight trip. They did a similar trip last year. Per his IEP a parent is permitted to attend all field trips. The bottom line is that his anxiety and PTSD are so bad that he could never attend without a parent even given his age. Last year I had to fight to attend the trip and pay extra for us to have a double occupancy room. The total cost last year for both of us was around $1000. The staff saw how my son needed me to help with his anxiety and admitted to being wrong to fight me.
This year the trip for both of us is going to be over $3000. This is a lot of money. Being a teacher I know that most times chaperones go complementary for these trips per the travel agencies. I also know that most museums/tourist attractions will not charge personal caregivers entrance fees.
Since my attendance is listed in his IEP and necessary for his participation, I was wondering if there was any president for some or if all of the additional cost for me to attend could be waived.
I appreciate any advice. (Bottom line I will do whatever is necessary for my son to attend this trip but I am attempting to avoid unnecessary debt.)
