Education Support

Your child’s education matters. Understanding rights, navigating IEPs & 504s.

Get Connected

Call us 9am – 5pm, or make a self-referral 24hrs-a-day and we’ll call you back.

We can help you navigate the complicated education system to find the resources and support your family needs.

Family Information Center
1-800-578-8750

Para Español: 1-888-808-7462

Getting Started: Know you rights

Is my Child Eligible?

Child Find (School’s Duty):
Schools must search for children needing special ed.

ASQ Developmental Screening
Free tools to check for developmental delays.

Your Rights Under IDEA & ADA
Federal Laws protect your child’s Education.

The Evaluation Process

Requesting Evaluation
What to include in your written request.

Understanding Consent
Your right to know what’s being evaluated

Parent Participation
Your input shapes results & services

 

Education Plans: IEPs & 504s

IEP (Individualized Education Program)

What it is:
Your child qualifies for special education. School provides specialized instruction and support.

Your Rights:
Meaningful participation • Prior written notice • Independent evaluations • Due Process

What’s in it:
Goals • Services • Classroom placement • Accommodations • Progress measurement

504 Plan (Section 504)

What it is:
Your child has a disability but accesses regular education with accommodations (ramp access, extra time, modified materials, classroom adjustments)

IEP vs 504
IEP = Special education; 504 = Access to regular education. Many kids have both.

Behavior & School Sccess

Positive Behavior Support

IDEA Discipline Protections
Schools can’t discipline for disability-related behavior

Behavior as Communication
Your child’s behavior tells you something

FBA & Behavior Plans
Identify cause, create plan, teach skills

Positive Discipline
Teaching alternatives, emotional regulation

School Transitions

New School Preparation
Visit school, meet teacher, practice routines

Grade and Classroom Changes
Leaving friends and familiar teachers is hard

Disagreements & Resolution

Start here

• Talk to the teacher

• Meet the Principal

• Stay solution-Focused

• Document

Next Steps

Mediation • Due Process Hearing • File complaint with SC Department of Education