Ask the Information Specialist: Behavioral Support and 504 Plans

[KarenADHDWeekly]

Section Plan are helpful for more than academic accommodations. Read advice to one parent who asks, "My child is doing well academically in school; however, they are struggling with their behavior. Often, I receive a call from school after my child gets removed from the classroom because they’ve been acting out. We asked about a Section 504 plan to help with behavior, but their teacher told me that they would not qualify because they are doing well academically. What can I do to help my child?"

Read the answer at chadd.org/adhd-weekly/ask-t...

[Mamamichl]

see if you can get a behavior intervention plan. I would still request a 504 plan and talk to some high we ups. My kid is good in school but had some social issues

[SMSC4]

similar situation with my son and he is eligible for a 504. Getting removed from the class due to behavior is a disruption to his learning and so you could use that rationale to ask for a 504. If not that, I would hope that teachers would have things in place to support his impulsivity/behavioral struggles.

[MOTORMOUTH_ADHD_ODD]

Here’s some advice for this scenario:

Understand the Law: Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act protects students with disabilities that substantially limit one or more major life activities. Behavioral challenges may fall under this if they are connected to a disability that hinders your child's ability to engage in the educational environment.

Request a 504 Plan Evaluation: You have the right to formally request an evaluation to determine if your child qualifies for a 504 plan. Document instances of behavioral struggles, how they affect your child’s learning environment, and any interventions that have been tried without success.

Communicate with School Officials: Reach out to the school principal or 504 coordinator (if available) to express your concerns. Share specific examples of how your child's behavior is impacting their school experience, and clarify that this goes beyond just academics.

Explore Accommodations: If your child qualifies, a 504 plan could include accommodations like behavioral intervention plans, check-ins with a counselor, or strategies to support self-regulation.

Advocate for Your Child: Stay persistent. If you feel the school is dismissive of your concerns, you may want to consult with an advocate or legal professional who specializes in education law.