Leaderboard

The parent's disability is covered under ADA. If they need written communication or a translator of some sort (ASL for deafness) the school needs to provide reasonable accommodations. Obviously, they would need to say this before the meeting. A parent with memory issues or who has difficulty taking notes could record a meeting as an accommodation, for example.

I specialize in specific learning disabilities and so will leave the transition/independence goals for a student with Down Syndrome to others with more expertise in that area. However, although reading could be addressed in transition goals, I believe it also needs to be addressed as a separate issue in her IEP. Students with Down Syndrome can learn to read, but may need a different technique than what is used in the general education setting. You need an evaluation showing she has the capability to read, along with suggested programs. If you don't have such an evaluation, ask for an IEE in the area of academic achievement (assuming the school has done one). You could also ask your pediatrician and see what he/she recommends - an evaluation might be covered under your insurance. Unless the school has data showing she cannot learn to read above a Kindergarten level, they have an obligation to teach her to read up to her capability. And to find the methodology that works for her. She needs specific goals in her IEP for reading - and instruction should NOT come by way of OT.

You can legally request to SEE the video - the school district doesn't necessary have to give you a copy of it. If the video contains footage of other students not pertinent to the incident, they can be redacted.