March 2023: 

The MLO Minute: “Did You Know That a Special Education Attorney Can Help You…” 

By, Jacqueline Lembeck, Esq. —

1.) Secure reimbursement for tuition and/or transportation to a private school that can meet your child’s needs.

 

Special education laws provide that parents may be reimbursed for the expenses of a private school when a school district or charter school fails to offer an appropriate program. Moreover, special education attorneys are well-versed in the laws surrounding transportation of children to and from private schools.

 

2.) Obtain reimbursement for past tutoring expenses.

 

In many cases, parents are footing the bill to supplement an inappropriate program/placement with expensive outside services. A special education attorney can review your case to determine if reimbursement is possible and provide recommendations for how to address your child’s IEP or 504 Plan.

 

3.) Advocate for services in the Least Restrictive Environment.

 

Students receiving special education are entitled to services in the Least Restrictive Environment, meaning that they should be with their non-disabled peers to the maximum extent appropriate. If you are trying to advocate for your child to be educated in a less restrictive environment (e.g. their home school, or in more general education classes), a special education attorney can help you understand how and when services should be delivered in a less restrictive setting.

 

4.) Receive more consistent and detailed communication from your child’s school.

 

One of the most common problems faced by the parents I represent is ineffective communication between the family and school district or charter school. This can lead to misunderstandings, lack of trust, or uncertainty about the child’s school day. A special education attorney can help push for more consistent and meaningful communications to repair that break down or for more detailed or clear data so you can participate in your child’s education.

 

5.) Address your child’s school avoidance.

 

Especially in these years after the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, many families are facing attendance and truancy issues for children who are avoiding school based on their mental health needs or bullying/harassment faced in school. Experienced counsel can help you navigate these complex situations including obtaining comprehensive evaluations of your child’s needs, improved services during the school day, or an appropriate placement if your child’s needs cannot be met in the current school placement.

 

Have questions? We offer free initial consultations in our special education cases. If you have additional questions, please do not hesitate to contact the attorneys at McAndrews, Mehalick, Connolly, Hulse & Ryan, P.C. by clicking here or by calling any of our numbers noted on our website!