School Resources
School Resources
Preparing for School: .
Many parents and guardians who have children with adrenal insufficiency wonder if they should homeschool or send their children to public or private schools. We believe parents are the best judge of what their child needs to succeed and thrive. We provide resources to help you decide what your child might need in a public or private school setting. In the future we hope to add more resources for parents who choose to homeschool.
What does my child need to be safe and successful?
Health Plan: A good health plan will help ensure your child receives the medications they need while at school. A school nurse, your child’s teacher(s), any assigned aides, and/or other school personnel interacting with your child regularly should attend. With the help of AIU, Oregon was the first state to enact legislation for students with adrenal insufficiency. See their training materials.
IEP or 504? Children with adrenal insufficiency may need specialized instruction or accommodations to be successful. As a parent or guardian it is your right to ask for an evaluation for either. When attending meetings you may invite anyone who will help you advocate for your child.
What's the difference between IEP and a 504 Plan?
In order to help make that decision with your child’s school, you need to know about the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 (Section 504).
The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA):
IDEA requires schools to provide all educationally disabled students ages 3-21 with a free, appropriate public education (FAPE). To be eligible for special education under IDEA, a child must have a disability and must need special education and related services. To “need” special education, the child’s disability must affect his or her ability to perform in school so that the child needs specially designed instruction to benefit from his or her education. The school then provides an individualized education program (IEP) that is designed to meet the child’s unique needs and prepare him or her for further education, employment and independent living.
IEP: An individualized education program, including special instruction and related services, designed to meet the child’s unique needs.
Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act (Section 504):
If a child has a disability but does not need special education services (specially designed instruction), the child is not eligible for an IEP but may be eligible for a Section 504 plan. A “504 plan” is a plan developed in accordance with Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act, a civil rights law (not an education law) that protects people with disabilities from discrimination in programs and activities, such as public schools, that receive federal funding. A 504 plan provides a student with accommodations, modifications and support services to ensure equal access to education.
Section 504 Plan: Accommodations, modifications, support services to ensure equal access to education.
Submitted by:
Susan Coleman, AIU Special Education Consultant
based on information from the Disabilities Rights Center
(603) 228-0432 or (800)834-1721
Fax: (603) 225-2077
advocacy@drcnh.org
This information is not intended as legal advice. For personalized legal guidance, please consult an attorney.
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