Citizens’ Advisory Committee (SECAC) host meetings and provide resources to support families. • Private School Options: For children with specific learning disabilities, like dyslexia, consider schools such as The Summit School in Edgewater. With a stigma-free environment, students can focus on learning alongside peers facing similar challenges. School District Support: In Anne Arundel County, the Office of Student Support Services oversees Section 504 implementation. More information is available at aacps. org/section504. KEY TIPS FOR PARENTS • Document Everything: Keep detailed records of meetings, evaluations, and communication with the school. • Ask for Clarity: If you’re uncertain about terms or processes, request explanations from school staff. • Seek Support: Contact your local Board of Education representative if issues persist after exhausting school- based channels. Dr. Bache Tobin reminds parents, “The school is required to ensure that the parent understands the proceedings of
team meetings and to include an interpreter for parents who are deaf or whose native language is not English.” BREAKING DOWN BARRIERS Advocating for your child may seem daunting, but it’s crucial to ensure they receive the education and resources they need to thrive. As Beth Ann Hancock says, “Parents are their child’s best advocate.” By staying informed and proactive, you can help break down barriers and build a supportive educational environment for your child. For more information or to get started, visit online resources like AACPS Partners for Success or SECAC. Sources: 1. U.S. Department of Education, “Protecting Students With Disabilities,” Office for Civil Rights, last modified July 2020, 12/1/24, https://www2.ed.gov/about/offices/list/ ocr/504faq.html 2. U.S. Department of Education, “Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA),” IDEA Website, 12/1/24, https://sites.ed.gov/idea/ 3. Anne Arundel County Public Schools, “Special Education Family Support: Partners for Success,” 12/1/24, https://www.aacps.org/page/aacps-special-education-family-support 4. Anne Arundel County Public Schools, “Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act,” 12/1/24, https://www.aacps.org/section504 5. Anne Arundel County Public Schools, “Special Education Citizens' Advisory Committee (SECAC),” 12/1/24, https://www.aacps.org/o/aacps/page/special-education-citizens- advisory-committee-secac 6. Understood.org, “The Differences Between IEPs and 504 Plans,” Understood, 12/1/24, https://www.understood.org/articles/en/the-difference-between-ieps-and-504-plans
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