Become an advocate for your child

Parents and guardians can learn to self-advocate for their children with disabilities at a free workshop from 10 to 11 a.m. Tues., Sept. 12 at Hardy Learning Center, 697 Mobil Ave., Camarillo.

Children who have disabilities that do not interfere with their ability to progress in general education and who are not eligible for special education services may be entitled to a 504 Accommodation Plan, a plan designed for the unique needs of an individual with a disability as required by the Americans with Disabilities Act.

School districts must ensure that students with disabilities have meaningful opportunities to participate in all aspects of school on an equal basis with students without disabilities. A child who can learn from the regular education curriculum can use a 504 plan.

A child who needs a special education program that is fundamentally different from the way other children are learning may participate in an Individual Education Program under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act.

Both the 504 and IEP can technically provide specialized instruction, but because no federal funding accompanies a 504, in practice schools use a 504 only for accommodations and modifications, not for specialized instruction and related services.

The Hardy workshop will teach parents and guardians how to self-advocate for their child's IEP or 504. Seating is limited at the work

shop. For more information or reservations, call (805) 389-8144 or (866) 96BRAIN.