Monica: My son in a 7th grade autistic child. Today the special ed coordinator called me to tell me that my son would not be allowed to take the elective that he requested due to a conflict in his schedule. I was given two alternatives: 1) take him out of co teach for his science class or 2) pick a different elective. Neither alternatives are acceptable to me because I feel that he is being discriminated against because he would be able to take the class if he did not require special education. The school takes the position that the schedule conflicts with the special education schedule so he cannot take the class. I think that everyone, including special education children, should have access to all electives. Is this discrimination? Principal and district special education director have not returned my phone calls nor emails. Suggestions?
I’m facing the same situation and am curious as to resources/options?
This seems like a violation of FAPE to me. I suggest the Disability Rights agency for your state. . http://www.parentcenterhub.org/find-your-center/
I’m curious about this too and am facing the same situation for next school year. I’d appreciate any advice
I would like to know how this was resolved. I am facing a similar situation with a parent; the student wants to pick an elective that doesn’t fit with the “Study skills” class the school wants him to take. It seems to me that “special ed.” and “study skills” classes are a convenience for the school, but not exactly in the spirit of being individualized.
I would appreciate other’s input on this. I have suggested the parent just refuse the schedule the school is proposing and have her son choose his electives like any other student – then let the IEP team figure out how they are going to make that work for the student…
I suggest contacting your state parent training & information center. They will be familiar with your state rules & procedures on this issue, in addition to the federal rules. http://www.parentcenterhub.org/find-your-center/