Disability Rights Maryland
As parents throughout Maryland begin the process of negotiating “continuity of learning” plans for their children with disabilities, Disability Rights Maryland (DRM) offers the following information and suggestions to assist parents in the process.
According to guidance issued by the Maryland State Department of Education (MSDE) on April 2, 2020, it is not necessary for the local school system to convene an IEP meeting. If you and your school staff can agree on the services your child will receive during this time that schools are closed. If you cannot come to an agreement, however, an IEP meeting should be scheduled. The meeting will be convened virtually, but must be convened in a way that allows you to participate. You should receive all meeting documents ahead of time.
It will likely not be possible for your child to receive all of the services that are on the IEP, but your child should receive as much of what is on the IEP as is possible, including related services. These services must be accessible to your child, and you should work with your child’s school to discuss how the school will do this.