Help is available, and the law is on your side. His promise is simple: every child counts. Every child has the right to an education. Every eligible child with a disability is entitled to a “special” education, one that confers “significant benefits.” That’s what Congress has said. That is what the Supreme Court of the United States has said.

The law protects all children. The law protects you as the father of your child.

Individualized Education Plan (IEP) – Every special education student must have an Individualized Education Plan (IEP) developed by a team that includes parents, teachers, school administrators, and other professionals. An IEP sets educational goals and describes the special services that will be provided to the student.

Due Process: Special education law provides many due process hearings and appeal procedures.

“Section 504” classroom accommodations are available to many students (K-12 and college) who have disabilities.

There are only five modes of communication that can lead to a disability; They are auditory, visual, verbal, nonverbal, and tactical communication.

If your child’s disability is affecting his or her education, he or she may be eligible for services under IDEA (Individuals with Disabilities Education Act) or Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973. IDEA requires public schools to locate and identify children with disabilities who may need specialized education. These children must “have available” a free appropriate public education (FAPE) that emphasizes special education and related services designed to meet their unique needs” 20 USC sec. 140(d). children with disabilities should “to the maximum extent appropriate [be] educated with children who are not disabled” 20 USC 1412 (e)(5).

Many parents find themselves in a situation where their child is having academic difficulties or discipline problems at school. Many times, there may be an unidentified disability causing these problems. If they have a disability that is negatively affecting their education, they would likely benefit from special education services.

Special education services may include:

occupational therapy

speech and language therapy

Resource Specialist Programs

Modification of regular education programs

special day classes

non public schools

Residential treatment, and many more.

If you think your child will benefit from special education services, call a professional. Your child only goes through her educational process once, so give your child the best chance for the future by making sure she gets the kind of education that helps her learn and succeed. Nothing is more important for her future.