A 504 plan provides legally required accommodations for students with disabilities in US public schools. These accommodations remove barriers to learning so your child can access the same education as peers. The specific supports depend on your child’s individual needs, as determined by the school team. Understanding 504 Plan Accommodations Section 504 of the Rehabilitation … Read more
To get a 504 plan for a child with ADHD, you need to request a formal evaluation from your child’s school and provide medical documentation of their diagnosis. A 504 plan ensures your child receives accommodations in the classroom to help them learn on an equal footing with peers. This guide walks you through each … Read more
A 504 plan and special education services both provide support for students with disabilities, but they are not the same thing. A 504 plan offers accommodations to ensure equal access to learning, while special education services provide individualized instruction tailored to a student’s specific needs. Understanding the difference between a 504 plan vs special education … Read more
If your child has an emotional behavioral disorder (EBD), school can feel overwhelming for both of you. The good news is that with the right support, children with emotional behavioral disorders in school can thrive academically and socially. This article explains practical steps parents and teachers can take to help these students succeed. Understanding Emotional … Read more
A functional behavioral assessment in school is a structured process used to understand why a student engages in challenging behaviors. This assessment helps educators identify the purpose or function of the behavior, so they can create effective support plans. By focusing on the root cause, schools can help students succeed both academically and socially. What … Read more
A behavioral intervention plan (BIP) is a school document that outlines strategies to help a student replace challenging behaviors with positive ones. It is used when a student’s behavior interferes with their learning or the learning of others, often after a functional behavior assessment (FBA) identifies the root cause of the behavior. The BIP becomes … Read more
To get more services added to your child’s IEP, you need to present clear evidence that the current plan is not meeting their needs. This process involves requesting a formal IEP meeting, gathering supporting data from teachers and specialists, and understanding your legal rights under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA). By following a … Read more
An IEP meeting can feel overwhelming, but asking the right questions ensures your child gets the support they need. As a parent, you are an equal partner on the team, and your input is essential. This guide provides specific questions to ask at an IEP meeting as a parent, helping you advocate clearly and confidently. … Read more
Preparing for your child’s annual IEP meeting can feel overwhelming, but with the right steps, you can approach it with confidence. This guide walks you through exactly how to prepare for your child’s annual IEP meeting, from gathering documents to setting goals. By the end, you’ll have a clear plan to advocate effectively for your … Read more
Extended school year services, often called ESY, are special education services provided beyond the regular school year. These services help students with disabilities maintain skills and prevent significant regression during breaks. Your child may qualify if their IEP team determines that extended school year services are necessary for them to receive a free appropriate public … Read more