The Role of Parents in Ensuring Schools Provide Proper Accommodations

Ensuring that children with disabilities receive proper accommodations in school is a daily challenge for many parents. While laws such as the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act mandate that schools provide appropriate support, the reality is often more complicated. Parents must advocate tirelessly to ensure their children receive the services they need to succeed.

Challenges Faced by Parents and Children in the Disability Community

1. Inconsistent Implementation of Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) and 504 Plans

Many students qualify for IEPs or 504 Plans, which are designed to provide necessary accommodations. However, some schools fail to fully implement these plans due to lack of resources, inadequate teacher training, or administrative resistance. Parents often find themselves in constant battles to ensure their child’s needs are met.

Example: A student with dyslexia may have an IEP stating they require extra time on tests and access to audiobooks, yet some teachers may forget or refuse to provide these accommodations, making learning unfairly difficult.

2. Lack of Physical Accessibility for Students with Mobility Impairments

Many school buildings remain inaccessible to students with mobility challenges, despite legal requirements. Issues include a lack of ramps, inaccessible bathrooms, or classrooms that can only be reached via stairs.

Example: A student using a wheelchair may find that their school’s elevator is frequently broken, forcing them to miss classes or rely on staff to carry them up and down stairs—an undignified and unsafe solution.

3. Sensory Overload for Students with Autism

Many schools are not equipped to accommodate students with sensory processing disorders or autism. Overstimulating environments—such as bright lights, loud bells, and chaotic lunchrooms—can lead to meltdowns, anxiety, or difficulty focusing.

Example: A student with autism might struggle in a noisy cafeteria and require a quiet lunchroom alternative, but schools may not offer one, forcing them to endure distressing conditions daily.

4. Communication Barriers for Deaf and Hard-of-Hearing Students

Students who are Deaf or Hard-of-Hearing (DHH) often lack access to qualified sign language interpreters or real-time captioning. Many teachers are not trained to communicate effectively with DHH students, leading to gaps in learning.

Example: A high school student who is deaf might rely on an interpreter for class but find that the school has not hired one, leaving them unable to participate fully in lessons.

5. Stigmatization and Social Exclusion

Many children with disabilities experience bullying or isolation due to a lack of understanding from peers and staff. Schools often fail to foster inclusive environments, making it difficult for students with disabilities to build friendships and fully participate in school activities.

Example: A child with ADHD might be labeled as "disruptive" by teachers and peers, leading to exclusion from group activities rather than receiving positive behavioral support strategies.

Solutions: How Parents Can Ensure Proper Accommodations

1. Become a Knowledgeable Advocate

Parents should familiarize themselves with IEP and 504 Plan rights, federal laws, and local policies. Knowing their child’s rights allows them to push back against resistance and ensure compliance.

Tip: Organizations like Wrightslaw provide free resources to help parents understand special education laws.

2. Work Collaboratively with Schools

Building positive, collaborative relationships with teachers, administrators, and special education staff can improve the likelihood of accommodations being consistently provided.

Tip: Regularly schedule IEP or 504 Plan meetings to discuss progress and address concerns before they become major issues.

3. Push for Universal Design and Accessibility Upgrades

Advocating for school-wide accessibility improvements—such as ramps, sensory-friendly spaces, and assistive technology—benefits all students, not just those with disabilities.

Tip: Parents can partner with PTA groups and local disability advocacy organizations to push for funding and policy changes.

4. Request Disability Training for Teachers and Staff

Many educators lack training on how to properly accommodate students with disabilities. Parents can advocate for mandatory professional development on disability inclusion.

Tip: Schools that implement Universal Design for Learning (UDL) strategies see improved outcomes for all students.

5. Encourage Peer Education and Inclusion Programs

Schools should foster inclusive environments by educating students about disabilities and implementing peer mentorship programs to promote understanding and inclusion.

Tip: Programs like Best Buddies International help students with and without disabilities form friendships and improve school culture.

Real-World Examples of Schools Doing It Right

The Model Schools for Inclusion in Massachusetts

Massachusetts has schools that have fully embraced Universal Design for Learning (UDL) principles, ensuring classrooms are structured to accommodate different learning styles and disabilities. Their approach includes:

• Providing assistive technology (e.g., text-to-speech software).

• Offering alternative learning spaces for sensory-sensitive students.

• Training all teachers in inclusive teaching methods.

Gallaudet University’s Model K-12 Schools for Deaf Students

Gallaudet University operates schools where American Sign Language (ASL) and English are both fully integrated, ensuring Deaf and Hard-of-Hearing students have full access to education. Many public schools look to these institutions as models for best practices in accessibility.

The Inclusive School Initiative in California

Several districts in California have adopted policies requiring all new school buildings to follow universal design principles and have introduced mandatory disability awareness training for teachers.

Call to Action: Parents, Your Voice Matters!

Parents play a critical role in ensuring their children receive the accommodations they need. If you are facing challenges with your child’s school:

🔹 Educate yourself on your child’s rights under IDEA and Section 504.
🔹 Communicate regularly with teachers and administrators about your child’s needs.
🔹 Advocate for systemic changes—such as more training for educators and improved accessibility.
🔹 Join parent advocacy groups like the Council of Parent Attorneys and Advocates (COPAA) to support broader efforts for inclusive education.

Every child deserves a fair and equal education. When parents speak up, demand accountability, and push for inclusive policies, real change happens. Your advocacy not only helps your child—it paves the way for all students with disabilities to thrive.