Navigating School Discipline for Students with 504s and IEPs
My 4th grader has a 504, and my kindergartener with an IEP is struggling. The school has mentioned "suspension" and "self-contained." What should I do?
🚨 Key Steps to Protect Your Child’s Rights
1️⃣ Keep a Paper Trail
- Document all incidents, communication, and disciplinary actions.
- If the school calls you to pick up your child, ask if it is a suspension and request written documentation.
2️⃣ Request an FBA & BIP
📌 Ask for a Functional Behavior Assessment (FBA)
- An FBA helps identify why behaviors occur and what supports can help.
- Once completed, the school should develop a Behavior Intervention Plan (BIP) to provide structured strategies and accommodations.
📌 If a BIP already exists, request a review
- If your child is still struggling, the plan may need adjustments.
3️⃣ Understand the 10-Day Rule
- If a child with an IEP or 504 accumulates 10 suspension days, a Manifestation Determination Review (MDR) is required.
- The MDR determines if the behavior was a result of the child’s disability and whether the school provided proper supports.
4️⃣ Be Cautious with “Self-Contained” Placement
- A self-contained setting should not be used as a punishment.
- Placement changes must be discussed in an IEP meeting and be based on data, not discipline.
5️⃣ Advocate for Appropriate Supports
✔️ Revisit IEP/504 accommodations to prevent future issues.
✔️ Ensure teachers and staff are implementing supports correctly.
✔️ Request an emergency IEP meeting if discipline is becoming a pattern.
🚀 Final Tips
✅ Always request documentation of discipline incidents.
✅ If the school is not following procedures, consider filing a formal complaint or requesting mediation.
✅ Stay firm but collaborative—your child’s education and emotional well-being matter!
💡 Tip: You have legal protections under IDEA & Section 504. Schools must provide supports before resorting to punishment. 🚸