Many PI children have anxiety related to the abuse and neglect they suffered in the orphanage. This may be exacerbated by the stress of some classroom situations, and make learning extremely difficult for them. Even though they may not be eligible for an Individual Education Plan (IEP) because of learning disabilities or differences, they are eligible for one through Section 504.
Section 504 is the part of the federal Rehabilitation Act of 1973 which applies to persons with disabilities. It states that no person with a disability can be excluded from or denied benefits of any program receiving federal financial assistance, which includes education in public schools. Access to programs means more than physical access. A student may require special accommodations such as a modified assignment in order to benefit from their education.
Section 504 protects persons from discrimination based upon their disability status, which includes people who have a mental or physical impairment which substantially limits one or more of a their major life activities. A diagnosis of Reactive Attachment Disorder or Post Traumatic Stress Disorder - or a history of such - will qualify a student for Section 504. This is an important protection for our children. A letter from a pediatrician or therapist with the child's diagnosis will be sufficient to qualify her for Section 504.
Knowing that a student has a right to modifications through Section 504 can mean that school personnel will be more accommodating towards parents and students and take the parent more seriously when she is describing her child's special needs. One parent called the school guidance counselor before registering her daughter for kindergarten, and said "My daughter qualifies for Section 504 and I'd like to meet with you and the principal to make a plan." A meeting was set up where special accommodations were established, including the counselor meeting the student in an office before school instead of the noisy cafeteria, and half-days instead of full-days. Other accommodations may include:
It is recommended that all interactions with the school be recorded in a book, in case of future disagreements or mediation.
The following websites have excellent information on advocating for your child.
Go to about.com and do a search for special education and Section 504
PEATC - Parent Educational Advocacy Training Center
A Parent and Educators Guide to Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973
How Parents Can be Advocates for Their Children with Learning Disabilities
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