The process of securing academic accommodations for your child with attention deficit disorder (ADHD or ADD) can be confusing — and intimidating.
Follow these eight steps to take the hassle out of requesting and establishing an IEP or 504 Plan for ADHD.Write a letter requesting an evaluation to see if your child with ADHD might benefit from academic accommodations.Address it to the chairperson of the Committee on Special Education Services — aka the Director of Special Education Services. (It’s often a waste of time to send the letter to the child’s teachers, guidance counselor, or principal.)Should the school decline your request, or if you’re dissatisfied with the evaluation’s findings, arrange for a private ADHD evaluation. (In some circumstances, the school may have to pay for the outside assessment.)TIP: Send your letter by certified mail or hand-deliver it and keep a dated proof of receipt for your records.[Quiz: How Well Do You Know Your Child’s Legal Rights at School?]A school-sponsored evaluation is conducted by a multidisciplinary team — including special-education teachers, the school psychologist, and other professionals.
As part of the process, they’ll want to meet with you to learn more about how your child functions in school.Team members will review your child’s academic records, conduct a behavioral assessment, and observe her in the classroom.
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