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Many children and adolescents experience difficulties in school. These can include speech, language, learning, or concentration difficulties or problems with establishing and maintaining friendships or relationships with peers. These difficulties can be a result of physical disorders, psychiatric disorders, emotional problems, behavioral problems, and/or learning differences. Children with these difficulties or special needs are entitled and mandated by federal law to receive additional services or accommodations through public schools. Every child must have access to free and appropriate education in the least restrictive environment possible. There are three federal laws regarding educational support services for children with special needs.
1. The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA, 1975)
2. Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973
3. The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA, 1990)
A child’s eligibility to receive additional services or accommodations will be determined by an evaluation requested by parents/caregivers. An Individualized Education Program (IEP) is an individually tailored special education program that provides special instruction or supportive related services (e.g., occupational and/or physical therapy, speech-language services, audiology services, psychological services) to meet a student’s unique needs. A 504 plan provides accommodations that remove discriminatory barriers to learning and educational opportunities (e.g., extended time on tasks, preferential seating, excusal for medication purposes, transportation services).
The process of obtaining educational support services can, at times, be challenging and confusing for families. Pediatric primary care providers can support their patients and families by helping to navigate the process to ensure necessary services are obtained. BHIPP has gathered information and resources relevant to educational support services in Maryland.
General Information:
National Education Association
Differences between a 504 Plan and an Individualized Education Program (IEP)
Disability Rights Maryland
Special Education Rights: A Handbook for Maryland Families and Professionals
For Primary Care Providers:
Maryland Behavioral Health Integration in Pediatric Primary Care (BHIPP)
Educational Services: Know Your Rights and Resources
Learning Disorders and Intellectual Disability
When to Refer Children for Further Evaluation - Understanding Different Types of Psychological Testing
Kennedy Krieger Institute
Sample Letter Requesting an Evaluation
University of Texas Health Long School of Medicine
IEPs and 504 Plans in K-12 and Beyond: The Role of Primary Care Providers
The REACH Institute
IEP and 504 School Accommodations for Mental Health Needs
For Children and Families:
Maryland Coalition of Families
The Parents' Place of Maryland
Healthy Children
IEPs and 504 Plans: A Guide for Parents
Nemours Kids Health
504 Education Plans
National Association of Special Education Teachers
What Parents Need to Know About a Section 504 Accommodation Plan
Maryland State Department of Education, Division of Early Intervention and Special Education Services
Family Advocacy Resources
Maryland State Department of Education
Parent Information Series
U.S. Department of Education
Parent and Educator Resource Guide to Section 504 in Public Elementary and Secondary Schools
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