Teachers and school nurses need to help a student with sickle cell disease function as effectively as possible. Take a proactive approach by knowing what to do if a child with sickle cell disease becomes ill at school.
As a parent, you are your child's number one advocate. It's very important that you know about the laws for children with disabilities.
An important law is the Individuals with Disabilities Act PL 101-476 (IDEA) which states the rights of children with disabilities and their parents. A basic part of the law is the right of parents to help decide about their child's education. IDEA says: States must provide free appropriate public education to all students (ages 3-21) who are disabled.
Children must be assessed for their disabilties, strengths and needs.
Another important law to keep in mind is PL93-112, the Rehabilitation Act. Section 504 was designed to end discrimination on the basis of a physical or mental disability in any program getting federal financial aid as well as public schools.
Some children with health problems, may not need or be eligible for services under IDEA but may need special help or modifications under Section 504.
Some examples of modifications may include: Shortened school day/week, special equipment, modified academic courseworks, etc.
