Beneath the Moonless Sky

A Stubborn Barrier

Two weeks had passed since Lan Xichen's initial visit to the school's administration office, and he had been diligently working to find ways to support Wei Ying despite the challenges. The school counselor had managed to arrange a meeting with Wei Ying's guardian, who turned out to be the head of the orphanage where Wei Ying had lived for years.

Lan Xichen's curiosity about Wei Ying's living situation had grown over the past weeks. He had assumed that Wei Ying's guardian was a relative or a close family friend. It was only recently that he discovered the truth: Wei Ying had spent most of his life in an orphanage, and the head of that institution was now his primary contact for school matters.

The day of the meeting arrived, and Lan Xichen waited anxiously in the school's conference room. The room was set up with a large table and several chairs, and Lan Xichen had prepared notes and a brief outline of what he hoped to discuss. The school counselor, Mrs. Zhao, was also present to mediate the meeting.

The door opened, and the head of the orphanage, a stern-looking woman named Madam Xu, walked in. She was followed by Wei Ying, who stood quietly beside her. Lan Xichen greeted them both, offering a polite but concerned smile.

"Good afternoon, Madam Xu. Wei Ying. Thank you for coming," Lan Xichen said.

Madam Xu gave a curt nod. "Let's get this over with," she said brusquely.

Lan Xichen took a deep breath and began. "We've noticed that Wei Ying has been struggling in class. We believe that an Individualized Education Plan (IEP) could provide him with the support he needs to succeed. However, I understand that there are some concerns about this."

Madam Xu's expression hardened. "We don't see the need for an IEP. Wei Ying has been managing fine so far. We believe that extra help will only make him reliant and less capable of handling his difficulties."

Lan Xichen was taken aback by her response. "But Wei Ying's struggles are quite evident. He has difficulty with reading and writing, and he's been subjected to bullying in class. An IEP could provide him with the necessary accommodations and support."

Madam Xu shook her head dismissively. "We have a different approach to dealing with such matters. We prefer to let Wei Ying handle his issues on his own. Besides, an IEP is not necessary for every student who faces challenges."

The counselor, Mrs. Zhao, interjected gently. "Madam Xu, we want to ensure that Wei Ying receives the best possible education and support. The IEP process is designed to tailor the educational experience to his specific needs. Without it, we are limited in how we can assist him."

Madam Xu's tone grew more resolute. "I understand your concerns, but our policies at the orphanage do not align with the creation of an IEP. We believe in fostering independence and resilience. I will not consent to this plan."

Lan Xichen felt a surge of frustration. "But Wei Ying is struggling. Are there any other ways we can support him without an IEP? Is there a compromise we can reach?"

Madam Xu's gaze was unyielding. "We will not agree to any additional support beyond what is already provided. If you have other suggestions, you may discuss them with Wei Ying's caseworker. But as far as I am concerned, the matter is settled."

The meeting ended with a sense of unresolved tension. Lan Xichen and Mrs. Zhao tried to offer Wei Ying as much support as possible within the constraints imposed by the orphanage. They discussed potential alternative resources and strategies, but the barriers remained firmly in place.

As Lan Xichen left the meeting, he felt a deep sense of frustration and helplessness. He knew that Wei Ying deserved better, but the institutional obstacles and the guardian's rigid stance were proving to be significant hurdles.

Determined not to give up, Lan Xichen resolved to continue advocating for Wei Ying, even if it meant finding creative ways to provide support within the existing system. He knew that change wouldn't come easily, but he was committed to making a difference in Wei Ying's life, no matter how difficult the journey might be.