I would not recommend threatening to sue your school district unless you are willing to go through if they call your bluff. Remember, your child will be in the school district for a long time (unless you move). Keeping your relationship with your school on an even keel will be so important. Think of yourself as a member of the team that wants to give your child the best education. You may need to pick your battles and make compromises when necessary.

The best way to approach a school district for services and/or equipment is to contact them and tell them you have a child with special needs who needs an IEP. This will set the wheels in motion. The earlier you do this, the better so that time is not wasted during the school year. The school only needs to provide the services and/or equipment once it is written into an IEP.

You can learn nearly everything you need to know about IEPs and your rights at this web page: www.listen-up.org/rights/rights.htm

Good luck,

Paula