Your Child’s Individualized Education Program (IEP) Should Not Limit Them to a Vocational Track

By Heather Hulse, J.D., M.S., M.A.

Senior Partner Scranton Office

 

Far too often I hear from parents that their child with an Individualized Education Program (IEP) is being inappropriately pushed into a vocational track. Of course, if your child wishes to pursue a vocational track, that is a wonderful choice and there are many options available. However, if your child desires to pursue a career that requires four years of college, or perhaps graduate education, an IEP for your child’s special education needs does not mean college or graduate school career paths are unobtainable.

 

Students with Specific Learning Disabilities in Reading can absolutely learn to read on grade level, or even above grade level, with the support of an appropriate research-based reading program. Students with executive functioning difficulties can learn strategies to help them increase their executive functioning skills. Students with social skills deficits can learn appropriate social skills to enable them to socially engage with peers and adults. Students with emotional dysregulation can learn coping skills and strategies using research-based programs to effectively learn to manage their emotions. There are many students with special education needs that, when provided with the appropriate supports and services to address their special education needs, can absolutely pursue a career that requires college or even graduate school education.

 

Should your school district or charter school attempt to push your child who wishes to pursue college education following high school graduation into a vocational track that fails to offer them the appropriate courses of instruction your child will need to be accepted into a college program, it is crucial to know your rights. It is important not to feel intimidated by school staff who may be incorrectly advising that this is your child’s only option. Should you need help making sure your child with an IEP is able to pursue the career path of their choice, our office can help. We provide free consultations in all special education matters, and most matters are handled without charge to families for hourly fees. Families should not hesitate to reach out to us by CLICKING HERE or by calling any of our numbers on our website.