"I didn't know that."

Did you know that your child can get school assistance even if they do not qualify for special education services? If you or a teacher "suspect" that a student may have a disability that child may have protections under a 504 plan.
Are you thinking "I didn't know that" ? You are not alone. This is not something most schools or teachers share with parents because districts do not get additional funding or support for 504. They get additional funding for qualifying children for special education.

A child that qualifies for a 504 may not qualify for special education.
So what is a 504 and how do you get one? Follow this link and learn more about 504 plans http://www.wrightslaw.com/info/sec504.index.htm.

If your child is ADD/ADHD, they may qualify under other health impaired. In this case you will need a physician diagnosis. A serious health condition that causes your child to miss school needs to be documented. They may also have protections under 504.

504 plans can be disorganized. Be sure to work with the Student Study Team (SST) to create realistic, specific goals. It is not the child's sole responsibility to meet the goals. Be sure that it is outlined what the parents and teachers roles will be in the process. Remember assess, prescribe (interventions), teach and re-assess. In 6-8 weeks revisit the plan. If it isn't working create a new plan.

Common accommodations found on 504 plans are: more time on test, less problems on homework or a test, help with organization, alternative sitting or allowing the students to work standing, positive reinforcement, strategic seating and the use of visual aids for communication. Many times 504 plans are not taken serious. It is serious as it is a legal document backed by the law.

Stay informed!