For the child who is already identified as a student needing special education services, the hospital teacher requests a copy of the home school IEP. Once received, the IEP is reviewed by the teacher and goals are incorporated into the lesson plans. Any needed changes to the IEP are made with parent permission and in collaboration with the child’s home school.
Due to illness or injury, some long-term hospitalized children may experience a change of status that impacts their ability to function in the general education curriculum. With parent permission, the Hospital Education Program (HEP) may refer a child suspected of having a disability to the home school’s special education administrator. If a child is found eligible for special education and related services, an education team meets with the parent and student, when appropriate, to develop an Individualized Education Program (IEP). The HEP and home school personnel collaborate in the completion of eligibility and IEP meetings within required timelines.
All HEP services are free to children and their families. For additional information, contact (434) 924-2658.