Access to Free and Appropriate Public Education During COVID-19
With the presence of the Coronavirus and recent school closures, children are to begin remote learning within the next few weeks. While the decision is being made in the best interest of our families and children, how does this change in learning affect our children with exceptional needs who have 504 plans and IEPs?
The United States Department of Education released a supplemental fact sheet on March 21, 2020. In this document, they address the risk of COVID-19 in preschool, elementary, and secondary schools while serving children with disabilities. "The Department stands ready to offer guidance, technical assistance, and information on any available flexibility, within the confines of the law, to ensure that all students, including students with disabilities, continue receiving excellent education during this difficult time."
Within this document, the U.S. Department of Education further describes the importance that school districts ensure compliance with "Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act (Section 504), and Title II of the Americans with Disabilities Act" and that this compliance "should not prevent any school from offering educational programs through distance instruction."
The entirety of the document can be found here.
As we begin to transition to distance, remote learning, this would be an excellent opportunity to reach out to your advocate or seek out support from an advocate who can guide you during this new educational learning process. At Collaborative Corner for Exceptional Children, we can offer a unique, collaborative approach to advocacy. Please reach out to us today with any questions or concerns.
Jessica Barisano
Special Education Advocate and Founder of Collaborative Corner for Exceptional Children
jessica@collaborativecorner.org