Academic Accommodations Are A Legal Right For 504 Plan ADHD Youngsters

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.

The first thing you will need is an evaluation of your child. Discussing this with school administrators and teachers will not get you the best result. You should send a letter directly to the committee for special education services. The letter needs to be either hand delivered or sent by certified mail. You will find sample letters online. It not uncommon to be turned down initially. If that happens, getting a private assessment is the next step.

You youngster's evaluation will include observation, behavior assessment, and academic reports. The professionals who conduct the assessment might include a school psychologist, special education and other professionals. You need to be involved in the process and become a member of this team in order to maximize your chances of a successful outcome. Parents need to keep detailed notes and retain any paperwork for their records.

After your child has been approved under Section 504, you and the school officials need to meet to devise a program that suits your child. If you are uncomfortable with administration suggestions that include only programs they already have in place, do not agree to the plan. You should insist on a specific time line showing definitive progress. The plan can be amended if enough progress has not been made.

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:



Powered by Blogger.

© goldway