IEP vs. 504

[Guest guest]

Dear RSS Parents:

I haven't posted for about one year nor read the list serve. I have been a

member of MAGIC (with a short lapse in membership, shame on me!) for about 9

years. Our son, Zack, is 9 1/2 years, has been on GH for 5 years, in grade 3

and doing superbly well. He plays ball, has friends, does well in school, has a

great sense of humor and wonderful self confidence. He is always happy. He has

been receiveing OT for 5 yrs. through the public school system in our MA town.

The OT wants to discharge him. He really has no need for OT any longer, but I

am afraid that as his school demainds grow, his need for services may resurface.

I told the OT that I was afraid to let go of the IEP for fear of not being able

to put him back in services should he need them in the future. I said I at

least wanted a 504 and regular monitoring. Once the IEP is gone, the guidance

counselor takes over to make sure he gets monitored by an OT. She assured me

the could get services if a teacher asks for testing and he demonstrates a

disability that inhibits his learning. Luckily for us, Zack has very mild RSS

and demonstrates no disability except for very small stature. He is in about

the 25% in weight and about the 10-15% for height. We count our blessings. He

now even eats normal food. He could live on pizza for every meal! He eats

hotdogs, burgers, chicken, pasta, balogna and other items. IT was a struggle

for many years and just eating chicken nuggets was a hugh milestone.

Anyway, does anyone have any advice for not agreeing to let his IEP go, or

getting monitoring on a 504? I realize that 504 guarantee accomodations which

he may need in the future.

Thanks,

victoria