Getting The Accommodations Your Child Needs Through The 504 Plan ADHD Advocates Made Possible

By Charles Cox


A lot of parents want their children to get a public education, even if those children have special challenges. These parents are often met with resistance when they approach educators about getting the academic accommodations necessary to give their youngsters a chance to succeed scholastically however. They quickly find out that they will have to be strong and assertive advocates for their kids, especially when it comes to the laws regarding 504 Plan ADHD children.

Becoming familiar with all aspects of this law is the first step in helping your young child get the necessary classroom accommodations. Kids with disabilities have rights under two federal laws, the Individuals With Disabilities Education Act and Section 504 of the Federal Rehabilitation Act. If you have a child with attention deficit, she may not qualify for IDEA unless there are additional challenges covered by the law.

Section 504 is the law that traditionally applies to kids with ADHD. These children often do not qualify for special education services. They do have a right to preferential seating, assistance with taking notes, and additional time for completing tests. If you are under the impression that the classroom teacher will automatically accommodate your child, you are probably mistaken. It will be up to you to get your youngster evaluated and into the program.

First you will have to request an evaluation. You should not try to go through the teacher or the principal of the school your child attends. A certified or hand delivered letter needs to be addressed to the chairperson of the Special Education Services committee. There are sample letters online if you are unsure of what should be included. If the committee declines your request, your next step should be to ask for a private assessment, which may include going outside the school system.

The evaluation consists of physical observation, academic reports, and an assessment on in-class behavior. This is typically handled by special education professionals and psychologists. You have the right to be informed of the findings and should keep careful records and notes.

Once the evaluation process is completed and your child has been approved, it is time to put a proposal, specific to your youngster, in place. It is not unusual for school administrators to advocate for programs they already have in place. This makes the job easier for them, but may not be the best solution for your child.

Once an approved actions are in place, with a time line for achieving specific goals, you need to monitor the activity and progress. This law does not mandate that schools hold annual reviews, but many do. Most also actively encourage parents to be involved in meetings and discussion groups. You can also request meetings throughout the school year.

Being a child can be difficult, even without brain based learning challenges. As the parent, it is your job to give your child every possible chance for success. It may be difficult and frustrating, but you have federal law behind you when you advocate for your youngster.




About the Author:



Aucun commentaire:

Enregistrer un commentaire