Community Forum

Hello everyone! This is my first time on this board and I would like to start by saying "Thank You!"  I have learned a lot from all of you. 

My son was diagnosed about 2 years ago after having a very long and involved surgery.  He was doing very well until about 10 months ago when symtoms started getting much worse.  BUT, my concern isn't about his health (In this message).

My concern is with his school!  He is absent, or coming home from school a lot lately.  Either from the nurse telliing us to pick him up or from my son calling me and telling me to pick him up.  His teachers are giving him a VERY hard time about making up assignments, tests, notes, etc.  He is trying his best to keep up with everything, but it does get difficult. 

I have explained to certain teachers, principle, and even the superintendent, but I don't think any of them really know what a section 504 is!!!  There is no 504 coordinator or any person that has any knowlege of 504! 

Does anyone have the same problems with their child being out of school and making work up??? Any help would be appreciated as to who I should get in touch with or etc......

Thank you so much for any info you can give me.

 Reply posted for chrismom.

CCFA has a standard 504 that you can bringto the school counselor or nruse.  I found the nurse at my son's school a helpful contact.  You may need to go to the regional nurse, since schools sometime only have aids.

www.ccfa.org/media/pdf/edequity.pdf

 Reply posted for chrismom.

Hi,

My daughter is 12 and was diagnosed with chron's disease last summer. She has missed this entire school year. I immediately had a 504 put in place. Fortunately, I work in education and new my rights. She received tutoring in all of her subjects. They also offered a medical bus to transport her on a shortened schedule (unfortunately, she was only able to attend for 10 days). I'm not sure what state you're in, but you should start with the special education department. Provide a medical note from your doctor and have them set up a meeting. By law, they have to respond within 30 days to your written request. My district was wonderful and couldn't offer enough support. You can always download Test Assess and accomodations from the New York State Ed. Dept. (I would check your state for their accomodations). Ironically, I happen to have a copy of  student accomodations on my kitchen counter right now. You may want to look into double time for tests, breaks for test, "stop the clock" testing (if the test is timed, they need to stop it while the child bathrooms etc), set of textbooks provided for home use, etc. I hope  this helps.

 Reply posted for sakmillis.

Thank you all for your suggestions!!  I live in New Jersey, and I will say that the more people I talk the more information I get, and I appreciate all your responses!!

 Reply posted for chrismom.

My son was diagnosed in Jan of this year, his Crohn's is happily under control for now but is experiencing all kinds of other issues such as severe joint pain, sleeplessness, vertigo (the list goes on).  We have a 504 in place but that doesn't help when so much school is missed.  We are now in the process of getting a tutor. The school is taking care of it (we need medical documentation that he is in need) and we'll go from there.  My son's school counselor has been wonderful trying to help the best she can. Do you mind if I ask you what state you live in??

Best of luck to you !!!!

 Reply posted for chrismom.

There is a 504 template on this web site.  Look under the Kids & Teens tab on the left.  My daughter is a third grader with Crohns and we have gone through the guidance counselor at her school.  The school is required by law to provide accomodations for your son, he has a "medical disability."  If you need to contact a lawyer.  Good luck.

 Reply posted for Jeri.

P.S.  You might also look at the American Diabetes Associations information.  They have a much more developed legal department and resources too.  Many sites will refer you to them (if the CCFA one isn't working).  I'm sorry you have this extra issue on your plate.

 Reply posted for chrismom.

Your statement is a very familar one.  A parent with a sick child....and the concern is the school.   Generally, the principal of the school will set the tone.  Go to Wrightslaw website -- it is helpful.   The principal sets the tone.  Our story is a nightmare so I cannot say how to succeed .........  she eventually left public school.   Jennfier Jaff may be able to help too.  I hope you will let us know how it goes.