For California parents who have children with disabilities, everyday issues that are typically uneventful for other kids can be challenging and stressful, especially for those students with learning disabilities. When parents utilize an individualized education program (IEP), they can ensure that there is a plan of action with a reliable structure and individual care for their children to help them achieve their full potential. One aspect of learning that often causes children with disabilities a tremendous amount of stress is standardized testing.
In 49 out of 50 states across the country, standardized tests are required at certain grade levels. Such tests can be challenging and stressful even for children without disabilities. When a disability exists, whether it is a reading or comprehension issue or difficulty understanding numbers, cognitive impairment or some other issue, taking a standardized test can feel like torture to a child. An IEP should include accommodation for these issues.
Time allowances, reading assistance, and more
Perhaps a child can complete a standardized test but simply cannot do so within the given amount of time due to a learning disability. A parent can discuss the issue at the next IEP meeting and request that an allowance be granted to extend the test time or to provide read-aloud assistance or an audio version of the test. These provisions are often provided at the post-secondary level of education, as well.
If a California parent is having trouble obtaining IEP services to which his or her child is entitled in school or if legal complications have arisen regarding a specific issue, that parent may seek additional support by requesting a meeting with an attorney who is well-versed in special education law. The attorney can review a case and recommend options available to help to resolve the issue.