When a Child's IEP Isn't Enough: Exploring Options for Students with Severe Behavioral Challenges
My 5-year-old with RAD, PTSD, ODD, & anxiety has an IEP, BIP, & support, but violent outbursts continue, endangering kids and staff. The school is struggling to manage his needs. What options do I have to ensure his safety and get him the right help?
📌 When an IEP & BIP Aren’t Enough—What’s Next?
If your child’s current school cannot meet their needs, you may need to explore alternative placements and higher levels of support.
🛠️ Options to Consider
1️⃣ Request an IEP Meeting to Discuss Placement Options
📌 If the school is struggling to provide a safe and effective learning environment, request a meeting to discuss:
✔️ Non-Public School (NPS) Placement – Specialized schools for children with severe behavioral and emotional challenges. The district may fund this placement if they determine they cannot meet your child’s needs in a public setting.
✔️ Therapeutic Day Schools – Schools that provide intensive behavior and emotional support with built-in mental health services.
✔️ Residential Treatment Centers (RTC) – If your child’s needs cannot be safely managed in a day school, RTCs provide 24/7 therapeutic support.
2️⃣ Consider Modifying the School Day or Program
📌 If a full school day is overwhelming, discuss:
✔️ Partial-Day School + Therapy Programs – Combining school with in-home ABA therapy, intensive outpatient programs (IOP), or other mental health supports.
✔️ Homebound or Hospital-Based Instruction – If outbursts pose a severe safety risk, temporary home instruction may be an option while securing a better placement.
3️⃣ Pursue Additional Evaluations & Services
📌 If your child’s behavioral challenges continue escalating, you may need:
✔️ Independent Educational Evaluation (IEE) – If you suspect the school’s assessments are incomplete or inaccurate, request an IEE to identify underlying needs and placement recommendations.
✔️ Wraparound Services – Mental health and behavioral supports provided outside of school, including parent coaching, in-home behavioral therapy, and crisis intervention.
⚖️ If the School Refuses to Change Placement
📌 You have the right to challenge the school’s decision if they refuse a non-public placement:
✔️ Request Mediation or Due Process if the district insists on keeping your child in an unsafe environment.
✔️ File a state complaint if the school is failing to provide a Free Appropriate Public Education (FAPE).
✔️ Consult a special education attorney or advocate for legal guidance.
🚀 Final Thoughts: Prioritizing Safety & Support
- A child’s placement must be appropriate for their needs—if the school isn’t able to manage your child’s behaviors safely, they are legally required to explore other options.
- Stay firm but collaborative in IEP meetings—push for solutions that ensure your child gets the right environment and services.
💡 Tip: Document everything—including behavioral incidents, school responses, and any lack of proper support. This strengthens your case for a more appropriate placement! 📑✅