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Students with disabilities who qualify for a 504 Plan are entitled to protections under federal law that shield them from discriminatory disciplinary actions. In Maryland, public schools must follow both federal and state regulations that govern how disciplinary decisions are made and executed for students receiving accommodations.

Within Maryland schools, a 504 Plan establishes essential accommodations for students with disabilities who may not qualify under IDEA but still require support in the classroom. Unlike individualized education programs for students in special education, a 504 Plan exists under Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act.

Students with disabilities enrolled in special education programs often face disciplinary actions that may seem unfair or disproportionate to their behavior. School suspensions can disrupt a child’s education and may not always take into account the unique needs and protections provided under the law.

Parents of children who may require special education services often face significant challenges in securing an appropriate Individualized Education Program (IEP). Understanding how to advocate effectively for your child’s IEP eligibility in Maryland is vital to obtaining the educational support your child needs.

Parents and schools don’t always agree on the contents or implementation of a child’s Individualized Education Program (IEP). These disagreements can be emotionally charged and time-consuming. While litigation is one option, it’s often expensive and adversarial.

Creating and carrying out an Individualized Education Program (IEP) can have a lasting impact on a child’s educational experience. For students with disabilities, a well-structured IEP is more than just a document—it’s a tool that supports access to meaningful learning opportunities.

When a child is suspended, expelled, or referred to alternative education, the effects can ripple across their academic and emotional life. In Maryland, parents aren’t without recourse.

School disciplinary hearings can carry significant consequences for students, ranging from short-term suspension to expulsion. These proceedings often raise serious concerns about fairness, especially when students or parents aren't familiar with the rights students have during the process.

Disability cases are sensitive and important because students with disabilities have rights under both federal and Maryland disability law that protect them from unfair or discriminatory treatment. School discipline can have serious consequences on a student’s education, social development, and future opportunities.