Jan 26, 2025

Indiana Department of Education's investigation into North Lawrence Community Schools (NLCS)

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Community Inclusion Ambassadors Inc. Hopes for Improvements at North Lawrence Community Schools

Paoli, In – 1/26/2025 – Community Inclusion Ambassadors Inc. (CIA) acknowledges the findings of the Indiana Department of Education's investigation into North Lawrence Community Schools (NLCS) and the school's commitment to corrective action. The investigation stemmed from a CIA complaint filed after concerned community members reported the exclusion of students with disabilities from the annual Christmas Program at Parkview Elementary School.

The investigation confirmed that NLCS violated state and federal regulations by excluding 14 first and second-grade students with disabilities from the program accessible to their non-disabled peers.

The Department of Education has mandated specific corrective actions, including the development of a memorandum for administrators and teachers emphasizing the inclusion of students with disabilities.

“We acknowledge the Department of Education's findings and hope that these corrective actions will lead to meaningful and lasting improvements in inclusivity at North Lawrence Community Schools,” said Patrick Underwood Board President and Lead Special Education Advocate. “CIA inc. will continue to advocate for the rights of students with disabilities and work with the community, the school, and the Department of Education to ensure all students receive an inclusive education.”

The Investigation Report can be found at: NLCS Investigation (Christmas Program)

About Community Inclusion Ambassadors Inc.

Mission:

To empower families and Children with disabilities, by creating a more welcoming community where everyone can thrive.

Vision:

A future where all children with disabilities and their families have access to opportunities, are valued for their unique contributions, and fully participate in all aspects of community life.

Supporting Our Mission

Your donations help us support families, advocate for rights, educate the community, and provide opportunities for individuals with disabilities.

To make a donation, please visit our PayPal Giving Fund

Dec 29, 2024

School Denial of ABA Therapy for Students in Indiana:

School Denial of ABA Therapy for Students in Indiana

Key Considerations

When a school denies a parent's request for Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy for their child, it's crucial to determine if the school followed proper procedures under Indiana Article 7.

Key Procedural Requirements:

Written Notice: The school must provide parents with written notice explaining:
- The school's refusal to provide ABA therapy.
- Reasons for the refusal.
- Evaluation procedures used to support the decision.
- Other options considered and why they were rejected.
- Other relevant factors.
- Information on parent rights and how to access them under Article 7.
- Resources for understanding Article 7.

Potential Violations of Parent Rights under Article 7:

Parent Participation: Schools must include parents in all decisions regarding their child's education, including the provision of FAPE.
Predetermination: Schools cannot make decisions about a student's IEP before the IEP meeting.
Appropriate Supports and Related Services: Schools are obligated to provide necessary special education and related services, including ABA if deemed appropriate.
Free Appropriate Public Education (FAPE): All students with disabilities are entitled to FAPE. Denial of necessary services like ABA could constitute a denial of FAPE.

Disclaimer: This information is for general guidance only and does not constitute legal advice. Parents should consult with an education attorney or advocate for specific legal advice regarding their child's situation.