Legal Rights to Special Education
As presented on this website’s page entitled educational options, if your autistic child meets eligibility requirements, he or she has the right to access an educationally appropriate program. To determine the program applicable for your child, an assessment will be conducted. It is important to ask for the qualifications of the person performing the assessment. By law, standardized tests must be administered by a trained and knowledgeable educator. Also, check your individual state laws outlining the applicable timeline when it comes to performing assessments. You will find that the school may have a set number of days to complete the assessment process.
If you do not agree with the decision presented by those at your child’s school, you also have the right to have an assessment completed by a private expert. This will have to be done at your cost, but it may be a step you need to take to ensure the school provides your child with the necessary services.
Documentation
Anytime you contact the school or any other agency about your child and his/her educational future, be sure to do so in writing. This will allow you to keep a record of what you requested and when the request was made. Keeping accurate documentation is important should you need to provide evidence in the case you have to file a grievance with the school. Take notes at meetings as well. You will be given so much information and will never be able to accurately digest it all in one sitting. Detailed notes will provide reference should you have questions in the future.
Autistic children cannot fight for themselves, so you, the parents, need to know what programs are available to support and provide help for your child. Whether the needs are health related or involve the education process, stay informed with the latest programs and statutes that will have a direct affect on your particular situation.
If you would like assistance finding a competent attorney in your area to help you with your child’s health concerns, please fill in the form at the upper right to contact us for a referral.
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