Raising a child with a learning disability is a challenge.
No parent needs the added stress of fighting for the special attention in schools their son or daughter is entitled to by federal law.
The Individuals with Disabilities Act requires schools provide every child who receives special education or similar services with an Individualized Education Program (IEP) tailored to his or her specific needs.
The law applies to children with conditions ranging from dyslexia to Attention Deficit Disorder.
Once it’s determined a child qualifies for special education the finals steps are to develop and implement an IEP – identify what accommodations are required to succeed and set goals to ensure the child does so. That’s done in an initial IEP meeting, a formal affair that can be intimidating for some parents.
They – and any advocate they decide is familiar with their child’s needs – meet with teachers, special education instructors, administrators and perhaps others to come up with a plan.
Some experts recommend parents consult an attorney before the meeting so they fully understand their rights and the services available to their child.
However, it might not be the best idea to bring a lawyer to that first meeting, a move that can create an adversarial relationship before talks even begin.
If communications do break down during the IEP process, it’s entirely within a parent’s rights to invite an attorney to the meetings (knowing, of course, that school districts have their own attorneys).
In fact, more parents are doing just that as cash-strapped school districts resist what might be expensive – but necessary – accommodations.
Bottom line: Ensuring your child’s rights doesn’t have to be a battle – but if it becomes one, call an attorney.