Too many times schools misuse school removals as a behavioral management strategy and this is a clear violation of their right to a free appropriate public education (FAPE). Disciplinary removals impact a student’s learning. Rather than address the behavior, they call the parents to pick their child up because the child needs to “calm down.” Then, the school does not record that as a removal from school. The Office of Special Education Programs’ has a
Category: IEP and 504 Plans
Parents often think of Assistive Technology (AT) as high-tech devices. Communication boards that can be controlled with eye gaze are used by students who cannot speak and might not have functional use of their limbs. Or an app that reads text to students on the computer. But, while not as exciting, it can also be modified scissors so the student can take part in class activities. It could be a graphic organizer to help the
How to determine if a 504 Plan is a good fit for your child. An Individualized Educational Plan (IEP) and a 504 Plan are programs that allow students with disabilities to receive help if they qualify. The goal of both programs is to help students. Parents don’t get to choose which one their child will receive; all students must go through a prescribed process to qualify. Federal law protects both programs. If you want to
This infographic outlines who is a parent as defined by federal law in relation to the Individuals with Disabilities Act. A parent has protected rights.
The infographic shows an outline of what is required by the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) that ensures students’ age 3-21 have a Free Appropriate Public Education. You can link to a larger copy here.
The terms used at an IEP or 504 Plan meeting can be confusing. This link will bring you to a site that has great explanations for prominent terms used in special education meetings. Please remember, during any meeting with the school, you can ask for clarification. If you don’t understand something or something does not sound right, ask them to clarify. Ask them to explain it better if it still makes little sense to you.