At great risk of being left behind

Yet again, our efforts to support Special Education students in their progress have proved to be successful.

This is the case of Adrianne (not her real name) a 23-year-old special education student with Autism Spectrum Disorder. Due to the Covid-19 pandemic, she was unable to adequately receive transitional services and missed all employment practices before her graduation date. Also, technological equipment was provided almost a year after the pandemic had begun and it had to be shared with other students at home, making it difficult for her to keep up with her classes.

Her parents turned to Puerto Rico Legal Services to present a complaint to the Department of Education. They were asking to have a one-year extension on educational and related services. Our Special Education Project represented her in the complaint. After attending various hearings and IEP meetings, it was established that on-line education did not suffice to reach the objectives and goals as established in her Individualized Education Program, as she was missing occupational therapy sessions. The Department of Education conceded to the claim and a one-year extension was granted. Today she is advancing in her education with compensatory services.

As we continue to defend the rights of Special Education students in the courts and other forums, we thank you for helping us develop the Special Student Defense Fund as a step to help many other students.

Thanks again for helping us continue meet our students’ challenges.