Naomi - your idea to approach the school and find out if they know of a Ben is the best way to go IMO - not to take away from the seriousness of the issue but I wouldn't be surprised if she was lying (wittingly or unwittingly) especially if it will get her a bit of extra attention and have her fitting in with the crowd (say what they are saying or whats been on TV) but unfortunately you can't just assume it to be so. Also by approaching the school they can be aware to keep an eye on anything that might need attention or resolution and address it immediately. I have seen it before and on the occassions where the girl was open and happy and twinkle in the eye it was untrue - the truthful occasions usually produced a very subdued and large adverse change in personality (especially where the "friend" was "normal" - different case often if the BF also has DS). My experiences are 2nd and third hand though - I'm no professional - just been involved in a lot of special ed since I was a child myself due to hands on parents - and thought I'd let you know what I've seen and experienced.