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What Makes a 504 Plan Legally Defensible? A Closer Look for Families

What Makes a 504 Plan Legally Defensible? A Closer Look for Families

When a child is living with a disability, every step in their education can feel like a battle. It’s not just about academics—it’s about protecting a child’s dignity, confidence, and right to access the same opportunities as their peers. Parents know the stakes are high, and when it comes to a 504 Plan, the legal strength of that plan can make all the difference.

Financial concept about 504 PLAN with phrase on the notepad

Are Functional Behavior Assessments Required Before Suspension?

Are Functional Behavior Assessments Required Before Suspension?

Many families wonder whether schools are required to conduct functional behavior assessments (FBAs) before suspending a student. That question touches on important legal protections for children with disabilities and how schools should respond in these situations.

Group of special students in classroom

What Happens When a Minor Is Arrested? A Step-by-Step Overview

What Happens When a Minor Is Arrested? A Step-by-Step Overview

The juvenile justice system in Maryland operates differently from the adult system, but it still places immense pressure on young people and their families.

Young boy behind metal fence

Why Pro Bono Attorneys Are Crucial for Underserved Communities

Why Pro Bono Attorneys Are Crucial for Underserved Communities

Without access to legal support, people are often left to face powerful systems alone. Here, we explore how pro bono attorneys change lives, uphold justice, and make a meaningful difference through selfless service.

Diverse hands holding scale of justice

How to Advocate for 504 Accommodations That Actually Work

How to Advocate for 504 Accommodations That Actually Work

Under Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, public schools are required to provide accommodations to students with disabilities so they can access the general education curriculum equally.

Text 504 Accommodations in school written in notebook

What to Do If the School Denies Your Child an IEP

What to Do If the School Denies Your Child an IEP

When a school denies your child an Individualized Education Program (IEP), it can feel overwhelming. We understand how emotionally charged and legally significant that decision can be.

IEP individual education plan typed on old retro typewriter

How Do Schools Determine Appropriate Disciplinary Measures for Students with IEPs?

How Do Schools Determine Appropriate Disciplinary Measures for Students with IEPs?

When schools consider disciplinary action for students with Individualized Education Programs (IEPs), the process involves more than simply enforcing a code of conduct. Federal and Maryland state laws demand a careful, legally compliant response when disciplining students with disabilities.

Children in wheelchair in classroom

Zero Tolerance Policies vs. Due Process: Where Do Schools Go Too Far?

Zero Tolerance Policies vs. Due Process: Where Do Schools Go Too Far?

When schools adopt zero-tolerance policies, they often do so in the name of order and safety. However, these policies can leave students without proper recourse and strip them of their rights.

Zero Tolerance Sticker on school Locker and bag with related sticker

Essential Elements of an Effective IEP for Behavioral Challenges

Essential Elements of an Effective IEP for Behavioral Challenges

When a child’s behavior interferes with their ability to learn, or with the learning of others, it’s critical that their Individualized Education Program (IEP) directly addresses these issues in a meaningful way.

Happy disabled child in school

How Can Parents Ensure Schools Follow Through on IEP Accommodations?

How Can Parents Ensure Schools Follow Through on IEP Accommodations?
Green background with words Individualized Education Plan