Students with disabilities are entitled to a free appropriate public education from the ages of five through graduation or age twenty-one. Parents, friends, teachers and others who suspect that a student may have a handicapping condition and is in need of specially designed instruction, may make a written referral for evaluation. This may be done by contacting the child’s teacher, counselor or school principal. Evaluation requires parent permission, and school staff will work closely with parents during the eligibility and placement process.

Students who are found to be eligible for special education under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) have individual education plans (IEP’s) written by a team that includes parents, classroom teachers and specialists. Middle and high school students are often involved in writing their IEP.

Students who are handicapped but do not require special education may also qualify for aids and accommodations under Section 504 of the Vocational Rehabilitation Act. These students may require additional assistance or special provisions to access their education. Requests for consideration for Section 504 eligibility may be made to the teacher, the counselor or the school principal.