For some children, school can be a challenge. These kids may require some additional help. If a parent notices that his or her child is in need of assistance, the child’s needs should be identified, and school records and an evaluation should be requested. Education defense attorneys may need to get involved in some cases to fight for the rights of children.
Identify the Child’s Needs
Before moving forward with an education defense attorney, parents should try to determine their child’s trouble areas. Struggles can range from an inability to absorb or retain information to poor reading skills to a delay in motor skills to poor social interaction skills. Hyperactive behavior and lack of physical milestones can also hinder the ability to read or write properly and prevent students from focusing on their studies.
Once these problems are identified, the next step is to attend conferences with teachers and administration. Teachers spend hours each day with the student and should be able to speak to any concerns. If a parent cannot get assistance at the school level, going to the district level or seeking help from education defense attorneys may be the next step.
Request School Records
To get a student into special programs, the parent will need to get a copy of his or her school records. This information will provide insight into how the child is performing academically while providing a way to gauge the need for intervention. Student records often also include disciplinary reports, testing results, comments made by the teachers, and grade reports. A parent has legal rights to this information once it is requested.
Request Evaluation
In most states, school districts are legally required to make efforts to identify all students attending school who require special services. However, parents may have to get involved and request an evaluation to expedite the process. Making a request in writing will document efforts in case evidence is needed at a later point. After making a request, school administrators may test a student to determine what services may be necessary. Parents will then receive evaluation results along with recommendations from the school.
If a child is denied services at school, parents typically have the option to appeal the decision. Education defense attorneys prove beneficial if the appeal process becomes necessary. Education lawyers can serve as an advocate for the child and help to ensure a student’s right to assistance.
