My son’s been diagnosed with autism, and we’re working on his IEP right now. I feel like he needs a para assistant in the classroom, but I’m not sure if that’s something schools are required to provide. We’re in Massachusetts, so I’m wondering if there are specific laws here. Has anyone been through this?
Yes, there are federal laws like IDEA that protect kids with disabilities. If the IEP team agrees he needs a para, the school has to provide one. Just make sure it’s clearly written in his IEP.
Reeve said:
Yes, there are federal laws like IDEA that protect kids with disabilities. If the IEP team agrees he needs a para, the school has to provide one. Just make sure it’s clearly written in his IEP.
Got it, thanks! So basically, it all depends on what the team decides, right? Can I ask for specific assessments to help show he needs a para?
@Darby
Yep, you can definitely request assessments. If you think he’ll benefit from having a para in the classroom, bring it up at the meeting and ask for evaluations to support it.
We’re going through something similar with our daughter. The school was hesitant at first, but we kept pushing and finally got the support added to her IEP. Stay persistent!
Skyler said:
We’re going through something similar with our daughter. The school was hesitant at first, but we kept pushing and finally got the support added to her IEP. Stay persistent!
How long did it take them to agree? Did you have to go through a lot of meetings?
@Darby
Yeah, it took a few meetings and a lot of emails. It was frustrating, but it was worth it to get her the help she needed.
You could also look into Section 504. It’s another law that requires accommodations for kids with disabilities. Sometimes schools are more open to 504 plans if the IEP isn’t enough.
Vaughn said:
You could also look into Section 504. It’s another law that requires accommodations for kids with disabilities. Sometimes schools are more open to 504 plans if the IEP isn’t enough.
What’s the difference between Section 504 and IDEA? I keep hearing both but don’t fully understand.
@Darby
IDEA is for more specialized plans like an IEP, while Section 504 is about general accommodations. Both can be helpful, just depends on what works best for him.
Once a para is written into the IEP, the school legally has to provide it. If they don’t follow through, you can file a complaint or ask for mediation. It’s your right to make sure he gets the support he needs.
@BrianCopland
Thanks, I didn’t realize I had the option to file a complaint. I’ll keep that in mind if they don’t come through.
Make sure you get everything in writing. Even if they verbally agree, it won’t mean anything unless it’s in the IEP. This way, you have proof of what they promised.
Noel said:
Make sure you get everything in writing. Even if they verbally agree, it won’t mean anything unless it’s in the IEP. This way, you have proof of what they promised.
Good tip, I’ll make sure to have everything documented. Thanks for looking out!