A Brief Overview When families and schools meet to discuss a student’s special education program, they can find Common Ground by remembering that everyone wants the student to receive a Free Appropriate Public Education (FAPE). Two short videos, A Tale of Two Conversations, provide a quick look at how a meeting might feel like one Read More
Category: 504
A plan that is made to ensure that a child with a disability and is attending a K-12 public school receives accommodations that will support their academic success and access to the general education learning environment.
Special Education Process Demystified in 10 Steps
Here is basic guidance about how special education works. For a bit more detail, visit the 10-Step Guide to the Special Education Process provided by Washington’s Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction (OSPI). Procedural Safeguards protect family and student rights throughout the process. Referral: Is there a known or suspected disability condition that may significantly Read More
Glossary of Key Terms for Life After High School Planning
Attention Students: Lead your own IEP meetings and take charge of your future
Section 504: A Plan for Equity, Access and Accommodations
A Brief Overview Section 504 is part of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, which is upheld by the United States Office of Civil Rights. This law protects access rights to public places and programs for individuals with disabilities. Accommodations that support access are guaranteed, and not providing access is a form of discrimination. All students Read More
Q&A – IEP vs 504
You Asked, We Answered! Question One: My son was evaluated by my district and they determined that he was not eligible for an IEP but recommended a 504 plan. I asked for a copy of the Evaluation Report at the meeting and was told they would get it to me as soon as it was finalized. That was Read More
Does my child qualify for Assistive Technology (AT) in school?
If your child is eligible for special education or Section 504 accommodations, then the answer is “yes” if the assistive technology (AT) is necessary to achieve a “free and appropriate public education”. Individuals with Disabilities Education Act, (IDEA), states “The Individualized Education Program, (IEP), team shall consider whether the child requires assistive technology devices and Read More
Can I Get Accommodations for College Entrance Exams?
The transition from high school to college can be a daunting experience for any teenager. Part of the transition process is preparing for and taking the entrance exams for college. If the student is receiving accommodations in school, they may qualify to receive special accommodations when taking a college entrance exam. Being aware of the Read More
Procedural Safeguards for Students and Their Families
Requirements under Part B of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act, the Federal Regulations, and the State Rules Governing Special Education Special Education: A service, not a place. Special Education Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction—Dr. Douglas H. Gill, Director of Special Education; Randy I. Dorn, State Superintendent of Public Instruction; Ken Kanikeberg, Chief of Staff; Gil Mendoza, Assistant Superintendent, Special Programs and Federal Read More