Do You Know Your Rights?
As a youth or young adult, you may not think you have many rights within your school. The good news is that you do! There are many laws in place that ensure you can get the same education and be successful in school.Here are some rights that are important to you:
- You have the right to participate in any meeting that is concerning you and to have your ideas and concerns heard.
- When you turn 14 years old the law states the IEP team must include you in planning for your future, so that you may start to prepare for college, trade school or employment after graduating from school.
- You have the right to participate completely in all regular classrooms and extracurricular activities.
- You have the right to a wide range of services such as:
- Technology (e.g., computer, communication devices, screen readers, tape recorder)
- Educational sign language interpreter
- Braille or books on CD
- Help to take notes
- Shorter assignments and extended time to complete assignments
- A quiet place to take tests or longer time to take tests
- Having someone read and/or explain directions
- Having assignments or tests read to you
- Dictating answers to assignments or tests
- Having an attendant or aid
- Pairing with a peer to complete assignments
- You and your parents are an equal partner in the IEP process. All school staff together only have one vote, and the parents have the other vote when making decisions.
- You have the right to have your UNIQUE needs met so that you may learn at your best. Schools cannot try to mold you into their programs. They must provide what you need to be successful!
- Schools cannot require students to take medicine to attend school (e.g., Ritalin).
- Schools may not refuse supports and services because of cost or that it does not fit into their schedule.