FOUNDATIONS for INDEPENDENCE
Things to know about Education
Parent involvement in the education of their children plays a major role in the
development of human potential. For parents of children with disabilities this is more
than supervising homework and attending parent teacher conferences. The Individuals
with Disabilities Act (IDEA) gives parents the rights and responsibilities to be involved.
The Individual Education Plan (IEP) is the process that provides for meaningful parent
involvement while assuring free and appropriate special education services for children 3
to 22 years old. Early intervention services for children birth to three years old and their
families are addressed in Part H of IDEA and is developed in the Individual Family
Service Plan (IFSP). Understanding the provisions of IDEA, the parent’s role and public
agencies responsibilities make it possible to develop individualized programs for each
child. In developing the IEP/IFSP, consideration should be given to the child’s needs
including inclusion and Assistive Technology.
Inclusion is the term used to describe an attitude, value or practice demonstrated when
children with disabilities are included with children who don’t have disabilities. It refers
to the legal requirement called Least Restrictive Environment (LRE). LRE requires that
services and supports needed by the student be provided in a regular classroom at the
neighborhood school. In part H of IDEA references are made to “natural settings”.
Inclusion means ALL children belong.
Assistive Technology (AT) for children whose motor and/or communication skills are
impaired provides opportunity for the development of new skills, independence and
meaningful education. AT is any device or service that and individual requires to
increase, maintain, or improve functional capabilities. This can include evaluations,
equipment fittings, adaptations, training, maintenance, and repairs. Functions capabilities
include but are not limited to mobility, seating, communication, recreation, educational,
vocations, etc. It has been said that for most people technology makes things easier. But
for individuals with disabilities, technology makes things possible.
Parents may find the following resources helpful in becoming better education advocates
for your children.
Foundations for Independence- Family Services
Foundations for Independence (FFI) believes that when parents are given pertinent,
timely information and feel supported they can access the most appropriate resources for
their families. They can also discover their own resourcefulness, and be a support to
other families. It is with this purpose that FFI has developed Family Services.
Information and Referral is offered by phone, fax, or mail, linking families to available
resources. Family Ties is a Quarterly activity that provides an opportunity for families to
gather for social, emotional and educational benefits. Respitality offers parents a paid 24
hour getaway from the ongoing challenges of special family needs. The Equipment
Purchase Assistance program offers financial assistance for adaptive equipment.
The Utah Parent Center
The Utah Parent Center offers information related to parenting, services, education laws,
inclusion etc. Staffed by parents of children with disabilities, consultants, provide
information by phone or mail. The Centers resource library has publications and
materials in various formats. An easy to follow video on the e IEP process is produced
and distributed by the center. Workshops on various topics are held throughout the state.
Call the center at 272-1051 or 800-468-1160 outside of the Salt Lake area toll free.
Utah Center for Assistive Technology
Utah Center for Assistive Technology (UCAT) is a multi-disciplinary, interagency
project site with a large display of adapted computer equipment and other AT Devices.
From the assessment process to the funding process UCAT offers individual
consultations. Contact UCAT at 887-9380
The Arc
The Arc of Utah and other local Arc affiliates offer direct advocacy for individuals. One
of the original organizations involved in the development of IDEA, Arc remains
committed to its implementation. Arc advocates with the family to get the most
appropriate services for their children. Arc offices also conduct other activities and
services helpful to families. Contact the Arc of Utah at 364-5060
Legal Center for People with Disabilities
Public Educations costs cannot be a factor in the IEP. This is what is meant in the law by
free and appropriate public education. If the process isn’t working for your child, or if
you are unable to obtain inclusion, assistive technology or other appropriate services
contact the Legal Center for People with Disabilities at 363-1347.