PLANNING FOR SCHOOL

Advocate for your child in the classroom

Children and teenagers who have pulmonary hypertension face a variety of challenges related to their illness. They often miss school because of doctors’ appointments, PH symptoms and side effects due to medications. Frequent absences can cause a major disruption in a child’s learning. In addition, student patients sometimes have physical difficulties negotiating their school environment.

Families of children with chronic illnesses can get help through their schools to maximize their child’s education. Parents should familiarize themselves with the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) and their state’s policies and procedures for assisting students with disabilities. Depending on your child’s needs, an Individualized Education Plan (IEP) or 504 Plan allows you to put your child’s needs and your expectations of school personnel in writing.

What is a 504 Plan, how can it help a child with PH, and how does it differ from an IEP?