Education

Federal and state law require school districts to provide special education and related services for children with certain types of disabilities who, due to their disability, need specialized instruction and related services to receive an appropriate education. 

Students who receive special education services are entitled to transition supports and services.  Transition supports and services are included in all Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) and are designed to help children and youth with disabilities prepare for adult life. 

Children with disabilities who do not qualify for special education but need accommodations or modifications to receive an appropriate education may be entitled to what is known as a “504 Plan.”

Children with disabilities are more likely than their peers to be bullied in school. There are legal protections for children who are subjected to bullying and steps you can take to address bullying.

The use of restraint and seclusion puts children at risk of physical and emotional harm. DRC-NH works to end unnecessary restraint and seclusion and the abuse and neglect of all people with disabilities.

Federal and state civil rights laws, which require schools to offer a free appropriate public education (FAPE) to children with disabilities, remain in effect regardless of the pandemic.