Education
Early Intervention/ Preschool
Discovering that your young child has a disability can be overwhelming and frightening. Parents hear the common refrain, “the earlier you provide services the better” which is correct but creates more pressure during an already stressful time. In Pennsylvania, most services are provided by Intermediate Units (“IU”). Your child may be entitled to services or preschool tuition reimbursement. If you are facing barriers advocating for your child’s needs, I can guide you through the process and step in when necessary to fight for vital services.
Kindergarten to Age 22 / Extended School Year (ESY)/ Transition
Federal law provides that all children from Kindergarten to age 21 are entitled to a free, appropriate, public education (“FAPE”) under the Individual with Disabilities Education Act (“IDEA”). In Pennsylvania, as of September 5, 2023, all students are entitled to a FAPE and all of the rights and procedural safeguards under the IDEA until they turn 22 years old. School districts must identify, locate, and evaluate all children within their school district that have a disability and meet that child’s needs if the disability prevents them from accessing their education. School districts are obligated to not just meet academic needs, but also social, emotional, behavioral, and functional needs. If the school district develops an IEP, the student may also be entitled to an Extended School Year (“ESY”) over the summer to prevent regression while school is not in session. This process can be complicated, confusing, and understandably emotional to parents. I will guide you to help you to understand the process and understand your rights and your child’s rights. My goal is to empower you and to step in when necessary.
In preparation to graduate from high school, school districts must provide transition services for children with disabilities. These services should focus on improving the academic and functional achievement of the student to facilitate the student’s movement from school to post-school activities, including postsecondary education, vocational education, employment, continuing education, adult services, independent living, or community participation. I will help you to develop a plan to prepare for post-secondary education and independence in in a way that works for you and your family..
University and Graduate School Accommodations
Disabilities do not disappear once your child starts college. Universities are obligated under Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 to accommodate disabilities and protect students from discrimination. Students do not receive 504 plans like they do in high school. Students will have to request accommodations directly from the university. Each university has a different process but usually students must seek out the office of disability services. Students are entitled to academic and housing accommodations. I can help you navigate this process.