Is my son entitled to a para assistant under his IEP for autism?

Education Forums
1

Hi everyone, I’m working through the IEP process for my son, who has an autism diagnosis. He needs a para assistant in the classroom to help him stay on task and manage transitions. Is there a law that ensures he’ll get this support if it’s included in the IEP? We’re in Massachusetts, so any advice specific to here would be helpful!

2

Yes, under IDEA, if the IEP team agrees a para is needed, the school must provide one. It becomes part of his legal right once it’s in the IEP.

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Uma said:
Yes, under IDEA, if the IEP team agrees a para is needed, the school must provide one. It becomes part of his legal right once it’s in the IEP.

Thanks! That’s great to know. I’ll make sure it’s clearly documented in his IEP.

4

Uma said:
Yes, under IDEA, if the IEP team agrees a para is needed, the school must provide one. It becomes part of his legal right once it’s in the IEP.

Exactly, once it’s in the IEP, they’re obligated to provide that support.

5

Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act can also back this up. It requires accommodations for disabilities, so a para assistant could be covered if needed.

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Van said:
Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act can also back this up. It requires accommodations for disabilities, so a para assistant could be covered if needed.

Thanks, I’ll definitely bring this up if I need more support for our case.

7

Van said:
Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act can also back this up. It requires accommodations for disabilities, so a para assistant could be covered if needed.

504 can be a good backup plan if there’s pushback. Covers a lot of ground!

8

Document everything! Reports from teachers, therapists, and anyone else involved can show why a para is essential for him.

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Brooke said:
Document everything! Reports from teachers, therapists, and anyone else involved can show why a para is essential for him.

Good idea. I’ll start gathering any documentation I can. Thanks!

10

Once the para assistant is in the IEP, the school has to follow it. You can file a complaint if they don’t.

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Paxton said:
Once the para assistant is in the IEP, the school has to follow it. You can file a complaint if they don’t.

Good to know! I hope it won’t come to that, but it’s reassuring to have options.

12

Sometimes schools need a reminder of their obligations under IDEA. Don’t hesitate to stand your ground if they push back.

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kenturcky said:
Sometimes schools need a reminder of their obligations under IDEA. Don’t hesitate to stand your ground if they push back.

Thank you, I’ll definitely be ready to advocate for him!