Special Education Guidance for Students Affected by Harvey

FOR IMMEDIATE AND WIDE RELEASE 09/03/2017

CONTACT:

Texans for Special Education Reform
Cheryl Fries
cheryl@Texans4SPEDreform.org
512-657-7880

Disability Rights Texas
Edie Surtees
esurtees@drtx.org
512-407-2739

AUSTIN: Texans for Special Education Reform and Disability Rights Texas (DRTx) have issued guidance for families of students with disabilities who were displaced by Hurricane Harvey. Presented in English and Spanish, the three-page guide includes a checklist for families, an overview of legal protections, and a sample letter parents or guardians can use to secure services. The guide can be accessed at texans4spedreform.org/hurricane or on the Texans for Special Education Reform and DRTx Facebook pages.

“We know that many Texans are dealing with overwhelming stress that can be compounded for families of children with disabilities. Our goal is to help children who need special education and/or 504 supports access critical school services and supports as quickly as possible,” said Cheryl Fries, Co-Founder of Texans for Special Education Reform, a grassroots parent-led organization that promotes quality special education. “To do that, parents should contact their district’s local homeless liaison and enroll their children immediately, even if they plan to return home soon.”

The legal guidance is provided by DRTx, our state’s federally-designated protection and advocacy organization for people with disabilities. “Federal and state laws are in place to protect and serve children with disabilities who are displaced by natural disasters,” said DRTx fellow Rachel Gandy. “Our attorneys and advocates are available across the state to make sure that your rights are upheld and your family gets the services you need during this stressful time.”

Families or individuals who need legal assistance can contact DRTx at 1-800-252-9108. The State Bar of Texas is also providing pro bono legal assistance for storm victims and can be contacted at 1-800-504-7030.

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ATTACHED:

SPED_Guidance_Displaced_English.pdf

SPED_Guidance_Displaced_Espanol.pdf

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