Related services can help your child reach their full potential while supporting them in the school setting. These related services are an essential part of the education support system, providing developmental and supportive assistance to children with disabilities, further allowing them to receive a free and appropriate public education (FAPE)…
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What is FAPE?
Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 safeguards the rights of individuals with disabilities in programs and activities receiving federal financial assistance (i.e. public schools). Who is entitled to FAPE? According to the Section 504 regulation, any person with a disability is entitled to a free appropriate public…
Reviewing Assessments and Evaluations for Your Child’s IEP
Every child deserves the best possible education, and as such, it is crucial to be informed about the rights and responsibilities surrounding their Individualized Education Program (IEP). An essential right under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) is the ability to review all assessments and evaluations used to make…
Requesting an Independent Educational Evaluation (IEE) Under IDEA
If you find yourself in a situation where you disagree with the evaluation of your child conducted by the school district, it’s essential to be aware of your rights, specifically regarding the option to request an Independent Educational Evaluation (IEE). Sometimes, more information is needed to determine eligibility, or parts…
Push-in vs. Pull-Out Services
As parents and caregivers, we want the best education and support for our children, especially those with Individualized Education Programs (IEPs). In the quest for providing tailored assistance, schools offer various specialized services, including both push-in and pull-out services. This article aims to explore the benefits and drawbacks of both…
Sent Home Again!? What to do when your child with an IEP is sent home.
You may have experienced that dreaded call from our child’s school: “I think you need to pick your child up, they’ve had a very rough day,” or something similar we know all too well. While such situations are not uncommon, how we respond to these requests can have a significant…
The Power of SMART Goals in Your Child’s IEP
If you are currently in the process of creating an Individualized Education Program (IEP) for your child, you may have come across the term “SMART goals.” These goals serve as a valuable tool in helping children make progress in their academic, behavioral, and social development. The acronym SMART stands for…
Understanding Dispute Resolution Processes (TN)
For families with children receiving special education services, ensuring that their Individualized Education Program (IEP) is appropriately implemented and supported is of paramount importance. Under the protection of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), children with disabilities have the right to receive an education that meets their unique needs….
Special Education Myth: Your child must struggle academically to qualify for an IEP
As a parent, you want the best possible education for your child, regardless of their academic abilities. However, it’s not uncommon for schools to deny Individualized Education Plans (IEPs) or Section 504 plans to students who excel academically. This misconception can prevent academically advanced children from receiving the support they…
Finding Their Voice: Self-Advocacy for Children with Learning Differences
If your child faces learning disabilities, your primary concern is likely to help them by working with the school and creating an effective Individualized Education Plan (IEP). However, it’s equally important to empower them to talk openly about their learning issues, which is often easier said than done. Speaking up…