Parent Resources for Navigating Special Education Services in the School System
Understanding Special Education Programs
A Guide to Common Special Education Acronyms and Terms – Navigating special education law as a parent advocating for your child with special needs can be a daunting task, full of acronyms and terms that are frequently used and hold great importance. Because school district documentation can be complex and confusing, it is necessary to understand what the acronyms stand for and what the terms mean so parents can expedite the special education process and ensure their child receives appropriate services.
The Major Differences Between an Individualized Education Plan (IEP) and a 504 Plan – Two of the most common services you’ll see are the IEP and the 504 plan. Both of these programs provide accommodations to children with special needs, and both are available free of charge to families that qualify. However, there are some important differences between the two to note.
Understanding Special Education Programs in California Public Schools – Understanding the importance of special education programs and how to advocate for your child’s educational needs are essential to their success as a student.
The Steps of an Independent Educational Evaluation – Typically, public schools in the United States evaluate a student with special needs to determine the best placement and educational plan for providing that student with FAPE. Sometimes, however, parents disagree with the school’s evaluation of their child. When this happens, parents may be entitled to request an IEE.
Education Rights for Children with Disabilities
Understanding Access to Education for Students with Disabilities – Schools and teachers are required by law to remove barriers that prevent students with disabilities from accessing the same level of education as their non-disabled peers.
Educational Rights for Students with Disabilities in California – The Supreme Court protects all children in their right to attend school and receive a free and appropriate public education (FAPE), including special education services.
Department of Education Provides Resources to Reduce Discriminatory Discipline in Schools – In the school setting, manifesting disabilities are often overlooked as an underlying cause for behavior problems, leading to discrimination in the absence of student advocacy. Students with disabilities have a legal right to equal access to a quality education provided in a safe and supportive learning environment free from discrimination. An environment that promotes social, emotional, and academic growth.
US CA 9th District Court of Appeals Rules in Favor of Student with Special Needs – One of the most essential parts of this ruling highlights the idea that a satisfactory education does not mean a “one-size-fits-all” education. Grade-level performance is not always the appropriate benchmark for all children with disabilities.
What Does Free and Appropriate Education Entail? – Every child has the right a free and appropriate education in the “least restrictive environment” (LRE)
Placement
Nonpublic School Placement for Special Needs Children – In some cases, an IEP can’t be implemented in a public school setting. When this happens, the public school district must pay for the NPS. A child attending the NPS has the same rights as any other child in the public school system, including the right to a FAPE under IDEA.
K-12 School Placements for Children With Special Needs – The Individualized Education Plan (IEP) will determine where your child gets placed. Putting them in what’s called a “least restrictive environment” (LRE) is a vital part of the IEP.
What is Alternative Placement? – Alternative Placement is a disciplinary measure used in most public and charter schools to provide an alternative learning environment to a student who is struggling in a traditional school setting due to behavioral extremes.
Judge Rules California Schools Must Offer Inclusive Summer Programs – School districts must provide diverse and inclusive options for students with disabilities during the summer months.
Transition Planning
Transition Planning for Students with IEPs – Depending on the type and degree of disability, children with special needs can transition into college and adulthood with minimal support, or they may need consistent assistance. Parents and school advocates can work together to develop a personalized plan of action for a successful transition.