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Office of Student Supports
Office for Student Supports
What is IDEA?
IDEA Special Education refers to the special education services and protections provided under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) in the United States. Here's a brief overview:
- Purpose: IDEA ensures that children with disabilities have access to a free appropriate public education (FAPE) tailored to their individual needs.
- Eligibility: Children ages 3-22 with specific disabilities that affect their educational performance may qualify for services.
- Key components:
- Individualized Education Program (IEP): A customized plan outlining the child's educational goals and necessary accommodations.
- Least Restrictive Environment (LRE): Students should be educated with non-disabled peers to the maximum extent appropriate.
- Early Intervention: Services for infants and toddlers (birth to age 3) with developmental delays.
- Disabilities covered: Include autism, deaf-blindness, deafness, emotional disturbance, hearing impairment, intellectual disability, multiple disabilities, orthopedic impairment, other health impairment, specific learning disability, speech or language impairment, traumatic brain injury, and visual impairment.
- Rights: IDEA provides specific rights to students and their families, including the right to participate in the IEP process and due process procedures for dispute resolution.
What is a 504 Plan?
A 504 plan in special education refers to a plan developed to ensure that a child with a disability identified under Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 receives appropriate accommodations and support in their educational setting. Here are the key points about 504 plans:
- Purpose: To provide equal access to education for students with disabilities by removing barriers to learning.
- Eligibility: Students with a physical or mental impairment that substantially limits one or more major life activities (such as learning, reading, concentrating, or thinking) may qualify.
- Differences from IEPs: Unlike Individualized Education Programs (IEPs), 504 plans:
- Are generally less comprehensive
- Don't require specialized instruction
- Are typically used for students who can participate in the general education curriculum with accommodations
- Common accommodations:
- Extended time on tests
- Preferential seating
- Modified homework assignments
- Assistive technology
- Behavior management support
- Process: Involves evaluation, team decision-making, and regular reviews to ensure the plan remains appropriate.
- Legal basis: Stems from civil rights law, not special education law like IEPs.
- Flexibility: Can be used in K-12 settings and often in post-secondary education as well.
Procedural Safeguards
- Rhode Island Special Education Procedural Safeguards Notice
- Garantias Procesales
- RI Facilitated IEP/504 Team Meetings
- Notice of Parent and Student Rights under Section 504
- Resources for Dispute Resolution
Special Education Advisory Committee
The Davies Special Education Advisory Committee (DSEAC) serves as an advocate for students with disabilities and a liaison between school administration, the Board of Trustees, and families of children with special needs.
We educate families and teachers about the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), Individualized Education Program (IEP) planning, and the implementation of special education throughout the Davies school community. As a result, the lives of all our students improve.
Why Join the DSEAC?
Membership in the DSEAC is open to:
- Parents of students receiving special education services
- Teachers
- Students
- Administrators
- Other concerned individuals
How to Join
If you are interested in being part of the DSEAC or would like to learn more, please contact the Office of Student Supports at 401-728-1500, ext. 304.
DSEAC Members Will:
- Become more knowledgeable and supportive of the special education services and needs of their child
- Learn information and skills that will help members work more effectively with their child at Davies
- Understand how to enhance their child's educational experiences inside and outside the classroom
- Assist other families and students with disabilities at Davies
- Support school professionals to make Davies a better place for learning