Back-to-school help for children with disabilities

It seems like summer just started, but at Southern Legal Counsel we are already planning for back to school. For almost 50 years, we have helped children with disabilities get the educational services they need to succeed. Chances are, we can help your child, too.

SLC believes that every child deserves a supportive learning environment where they can thrive.

SLC represents students around Florida to make sure that school districts follow state and federal laws under the Individuals With Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) and the Rehabilitation Act (Section 504). We advocate for children with behavioral, academic, medical, and independent-living needs to obtain an educational program that will allow them to make progress.

During the 2024-25 school year, SLC assisted 82 families in 26 counties across Florida. One example is a boy in elementary school for whom we stopped an inappropriate disciplinary action and suspension by the school when his team failed to understand his disabilities and how they impacted his behavior. Another elementary boy with autism had been secluded in a separate classroom with no other students due to the school’s concern with aggressive behaviors. We obtained an improved behavioral plan and transitioned him back to his class with peers.

If your child is 3 to 21 years old, attends public school in Florida, has not graduated, has a disability, and needs special education services, they are eligible for special education services. Some children in private school may also be covered for limited services.

If your child is younger than 3 years old, another program, Early Steps, may help: https://floridaearlysteps.com/

SLC can ensure that your school district:

• Evaluates your children to see if they qualify for services

• Conducts the evaluation by knowledgeable and trained evaluators using sound evaluation materials

• Provides eligible children with an appropriate education

• Develops and implements an appropriate Individualized Education Program (IEP) or Section 504 Plan

• Conducts a proper Functional Behavioral Assessment and develops and implements an appropriate Behavioral Implementation Plan

• Lets you participate in decisions about your child's education

If your child with a disability is struggling in school, request assistance at southernlegal.org to see if we can help. SLC assists families whose household income is up to 200% of the federal poverty guidelines.