Making it Work
There are many ways to meet the special needs of your child at school. None of the above concerns or problems should prevent your child from attending school. Decide whether you should use a formal or informal method to meet those needs.
The informal way would be through telephone calls, notes or just talking with school staff. The formal way involves many people helping to evaluate and plan ways to meet your child's needs.
If your child's illness affects the ability to learn, benefit from or perform academic tasks, then the school district is required by law to provide the necessary adjustments and / or services to allow them to fully benefit from their education. Public Law 101-476, The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), guarantees this right. This law states that every child has the right to a free, appropriate public education, regardless of their disability. The law says a parent has the right to ask that their child be evaluated for eligibility to receive special services.
An Individualized Education Plan (IEP), by law must be developed for every eligible child. These IEP's are developed by the parents, teachers, and other specialists (such as members of your health care team or other school staff). The IEP must be updated every year. Special needs of your child should be included in the IEP such as:
- OT or PT
- Use of a computer or typewriter
- Special transportation
- Having all classes on one floor
Some children may not need this formal IEP process. In such cases, sending a letter to the school from you or your child's doctor may be enough. Drafting a letter to the school may be something you will want to discuss with a member of your child's health care team.
Some children may also receive services through a 504 Plan. This law states that schools that receive federal funds must provide access to services and cannot discriminate against students with special health care needs.
To decide whether to use an informal or formal method, it is sometimes helpful to think about the school's role in the approach or solution. If the solutions are simple and easy then an informal (a letter or talking to the school) is usually okay. If solutions seem more involved, then a formal approach (IEP) or 504 Plan may be needed. Remember, solutions will be viewed differently by each school. The key is to work with the school about your child's needs and their ability to meet those needs.
For more information about the William S. Rowe Division of Rheumatology at Cincinnati Children's, please contact 513-636-4676.
