Special Education Questions

Section Two- What are the alternatives to Special Education?

2. What are the alternatives to special education?

Are there alternatives to a special education referral?

Yes. There are a number of alternatives to a special education referral. Before referring a child to special education, schools must try alternatives to help children remain in general education. These alternatives might include moving your child to a different class or school, arranging for your child to see the school counselor, meeting with you and your child to develop a plan to control his or her behavior, or providing tutoring in school or after school. Ask your child's guidance counselor or principal about remedial academic programs the school may have; some examples of extra-help services include Title I, PCEN and, in NYC, Project Read funded programs. If you see your child is having trouble, you may also independently look for counseling or tutoring services, look for a different school or teacher, or work with your child yourself. Your child may also be eligible for Section 504 services. If you do not want to seek services through your school, you can see if your insurance will cover the services that your child needs outside the school system. Medicaid should cover all preventive, diagnostic, and treatment services needed to treat any physical or mental condition in a child under 21.

If my child has a behavioral problem, what services must the school provide before referring him or her to special education?

If your child has a behavioral problem, the school should provide him or her with counseling services, should consider changing your child to a different class to avoid personality conflicts, and should work with you, your child’s teachers and a school social worker or psychologist to develop a plan that will help manage your child’s behavior.

What if my child has a disability but does not qualify for special education?

If your child has a disability that makes it difficult for him or her to participate in school activities, then he or she should get accommodations through Section 504, which is separate from Special Education under the IDEA. Please see AFC's section on Section 504.

continue with Section Three, What are the different programs included within Special Education?

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