Online Learning and 504 plans/IEP's

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rlsnights

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Another board I frequent has had issues arise with their kids who use Online schools. The online schools are refusing to do 504 plans or honor them saying they're not required to do so.

I found a number of sites with info on this issue and thought I'd post them here too in case anyone could benefit from them.

If an Online School receives federal funding of any kind, is chartered by a Public School or is otherwise paid for by public school funding at the state or local level, it is REQUIRED to provide and adhere to 504 plans and IEP's.

Helpful links:

I had no idea these websites existed but it is the answer to your prayers my friends. It is the Accessibility in Distance Education website. Much of the focus is on higher education but it also applies to other online public funded educational programs. It gives some specific references and suggestions that describe disabilities and accommodations.

Additional resources/ammunition for you guys to check out and perhaps print out or forward to the school cretins as needed:

http://www2.ed.gov/about/offices/list/opepd/ppss/reports.html

Minnesota specific site

http://www.iseek.org/education/onlinefaqs.html

keep this site in your tool box for college - looks like a real gem. Didn't find anything right away for HS but it may be worth shooting them an e-mail and asking for help or suggestions of other resources to use/check

http://www.daisweb.com/

Warrior Moms Response to SSBS (stupid statements by online schools) about 504 plans:

"That was a joke right?" followed by (delivered in the sweetest voice you can muster)

"I'm pretty sure this issue is covered by Section 504 or Section 508 of the Rehabilitation Act. Or maybe it's better addressed by the Americans With Disability Act. You might also check Section 255 of the Telecommunications Act and the Assistive Technology Act if you aren't sure of your legal obligations in this area. If there's still a question about this we could contact the (your state) Department of Education of the Federal Office of Civil Rights for clarification."

Or better yet have your CHILD deliver this little speech in person or by phone. MUCH harder to say "no we don't have to do anything" to the actual person who is disabled face to face or in direct conversation.

You could make the call and then tell them "Since you are having trouble understanding our concerns here's my daughter to explain her difficulties and the reason she needs your help today." Then hand her the phone and try not to interrupt or intervene too quickly in the conversation.

If possible have a written list of accommodations she'd like to get and the reason she needs them and maybe do a rehearsal ahead of time.

Crying at key moments during the meeting/phone call can be a very effective tool in my experience.
 
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