504 Accommodations Not Being Met? 4 Steps To Take When Your Child Isn't Receiving Their Services
If your child has a 504 educational plan and their accommodations aren't being followed, you need to take immediate action. School districts are required to follow the accommodations to ensure that your child receives the educational opportunities they're entitled to. Unfortunately, there are times when districts fail to meet those needs. As a parent, you are your child's biggest advocate for their education. Here are four steps you need to take if your child's 504 accommodations aren't being met.
Voice Your Concerns
If your child's school is failing to follow accommodations, the first thing you need to do is to voice your concerns. Begin by talking to your child's teacher. Voicing your concerns to the classroom teacher can often give you the results you're looking for. However, if that doesn't facilitate changes, you should voice your concerns to school administrators. Finally, submit a complaint directly to the school district. Be sure to document all communications between you and district personnel regarding your child's 504 plan.
Request Mediation
If following the chain of command has resulted in changes to the way your child's needs are being met, you'll need to request mediation. Your school district may be more willing to meet your child's 504 accommodations once you sit down with a mediator. It may also provide you with additional assistance for your child's educational needs.
File a Civil Rights Complaint
If you and the school district are unable to come to an agreement regarding your child's 504 plan, it's time to file a civil rights complaint. You can office for civil rights through the Department of Education. In most cases, filing a civil rights complaint will ensure that your child receives the benefits they're entitled to through their 504 plan. Once you file a civil rights complaint, be sure to follow through with the complaint. This may require you to make contact with the office until the situation is resolved.
Hire an Attorney for Legal Action
Finally, if you've been unable to resolve the issue, and your child is still not receiving the accommodations required through their 504 plan, you'll need to seek legal action with the assistance of a special education lawyer. There are times when legal action is required to ensure that 504 plans are followed completely. Your attorney will ensure that all legal remedies are sought to get your child the services they need.
Don't take chances with your child's education. If 504 accommodations aren't being provided, use the tips described here to resolve the issue.
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