Federal Laws and State guidance establish ways to support students with disabilities. The Individuals with Disabilities Education Improvement Act (IDEA) provides for specialized instruction for students who qualify for special education. The Americans with Disabilities Act Section 504 protects students with disabilities who require accommodations and ensures the students are not discriminated against due to their disability.
Parents and students are a vital part of the IEP and 504 school teams.
If a disability under IDEA is suspected, a comprehensive evaluation is conducted. The school team that includes parents/guardians and student determine eligibility for special education based on South Carolina guidelines.
If a student qualifies, the student receives special education and is removed from general education setting for part of the school day.
The school team develops an Individual Education Program (IEP) that outlines the goals, services, and accommodations for the student. The IEP is based on the individual, unique needs of the student.
Students on an IEP are protected under Section 504 and can receive accommodations for the disability under IDEA and other disabilities not identified under IDEA.
The IEP is reviewed at least annually and a reevaluation is conducted at least every three years. The IEP team can meet when needed to address a student's educational needs.
If you have questions, please call the school counselor or school psychologist for more information and to discuss any concerns you have for your child.
If a student has a disability and/ or medical diagnosis, Section 504 protects the student from discrimination and provides for accommodations at school.
To qualify under Section 504, the student should have or had a formal diagnosis or identification of a disability or medical condition that has a significant impact on a major life activity.
This documentation might include physician medical reports, educational records that document a history of a disability, and/ or additional testing, if needed.
The eligibility and accommodations are identified through a Individual Accommodation Plan (IAP) that is developed by the school team that includes parents/ guardians and student.
The IAP is establish to give the student equal or equitable access to opportunities. It is not intended to give the student an advantage over other students.
The IAP is reviewed at least annually and a reevaluation is conducted at least every three years.
If you have questions, please call the school counselor or school psychologist for more information and to discuss any concerns you have for your child.