Trajectory

Trajectory

tra·jec·to·ry /trəˈjekt(ə)rē/

noun

• the path followed by a projectile flying or an object moving under the action of given forces.

• often used figuratively to describe a process of change or development that leads toward a particular result.

• in life, "trajectory" refers to the overall path or direction your experiences take you, influenced by your choices and opportunities.

I think about trajectory a lot. How every choice I make has the potential to make a significant impact on where I land in the future. How decisions I've already made (or failed to make) have led me to where I am in this moment.

I think about trajectory a lot when talking with IEP teams. About how the choices we make at that table, often with the learner in question absent from the room, will have a direct impact on the trajectory of that learner's life. Everything matters- from the language we use to describe their Present Levels, to the goals we select, to the supports and placements we agree to. All of these things have significant potential to directly affect the trajectory of this child's/ this learner's/ this human's life.

What an incredible responsibility.

No matter your role at the IEP table, I want you to feel the weight of this responsibility and treat every decision with the care that weight demands. After all, we are talking about the trajectory of a human's life.

With Love, Light, & Gratitude,

Janell

P.S. Need help with your learner's IEP? I can help. Check out my packages and schedule your free initial consultation with me.