According the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act, students can not be barred from any school or activity based on their physical limitations. This means that a school can not in any way discriminate against a student for having a disability.
For example, a child with a genetic illness that causes joint pain can not be made to take regular physical education classes. In addition, children with disabilities who have issues walking must be picked up at their house by a school bus at the request of the child’s physician. Another example of this would be a partially blind student who needs to be released from classes five minutes early to help them navigate the hallways without running into other students.
It is wonderful that these laws in are in place. However, how do parents make sure that the exemptions are being made and are going to be made for their child? It is called a 504 plan. A 504 plan does not make any changes to the actual coursework that a child learns. It does make sure that the student is in an environment that is suitable for his or her optimal learning.
Concerned parents should do some research and make sure that your child is eligible for a 504 a plan. If he or she needs changes to be made due to a physical disability, then this may be the case. Next, make sure you communicate your request for a 504 plan to your child’s school in writing while keeping a record of it for yourself. Once the school administration agrees to meet with you, it may take many more steps to see actual changes happen. However, there is a good chance that if simple changes can be made to help your child, the teachers will make the changes. A step-stool in the art room or a special seat cushion at lunch can make all the difference to a child struggling with being different.



