Both New York state laws and federal regulations prohibit discrimination on the basis of disability or medical condition. School-age children with a variety of medical challenges may require support to attend public school and perform at the same level as their peers.
Schools can accommodate students with special needs by establishing individualized education programs (IEPs). An IEP identifies the student’s support needs and creates a system for meeting those needs.
What types of accommodations are common when negotiating an IEP with educational professionals?
1. Testing accommodations
Many students with special needs require support during tests. They may require assistance both for standardized testing and tests administered by teachers to validate mastery of coursework. Testing accommodations can provide extra time or a quiet space for a student to focus on a test.
2. Special services
Students with developmental delays and social challenges may require the support of more than just teachers. IEPs may include provisions granting students the support of speech therapists, occupational therapists, social workers and psychologists. Those extra services can make it easier for students to perform well in school.
3. One-on-one assistance
Students with debilitating medical conditions or other significant challenges may need one-on-one support. Schools can potentially provide paraprofessionals to assist students who struggle in classrooms where teachers may have dozens of students.
Parents may need assistance negotiating an IEP and enforcing it. Working with an attorney familiar with New York’s educational statutes and disability laws can be beneficial for parents who want to see their children thrive.