What to Do If the School Refuses Accommodations for Your Child

Introduction

As a parent, you expect your child’s school to provide the support outlined in their 504 Plan or IEP. But what happens when the school refuses accommodations, denies requests for new support, or insists that your child doesn’t “need” certain modifications?

It’s frustrating—and sometimes overwhelming—but you have legal rights and actionable steps you can take to ensure your child receives the help they are entitled to under federal and Texas law.

Why Schools May Refuse Accommodations

Understanding the school’s reasoning can help you respond effectively. Common reasons include:

• Lack of awareness: Teachers or staff may not fully understand the plan or how to implement it.
  

• Limited resources: Schools sometimes claim they don’t have the staff or tools needed (this is not a valid excuse under the law).
  

• Misinterpretation of needs: Some educators believe accommodations aren’t necessary if a child is performing “well enough.”
  

• Budget constraints: Funding challenges often lead to pushback on certain services or supports.
  

Regardless of the reason, refusing accommodations violates federal law under Section 504 and IDEA.

Steps to Take if the School Refuses Accommodations

✅ 1. Stay Calm and Document Everything

When you first hear “no,” take notes or ask for the refusal in writing. Written documentation creates a paper trail that supports your case later.

✅ 2. Clarify the Reason for Refusal

Politely ask:

• “Can you explain why this accommodation is being denied?”
  

• “Can I see the data that supports this decision?”
  

Often, schools struggle to provide a valid legal or educational reason.

✅ 3. Reference Your Child’s Rights

Under federal law:

• A 504 Plan is a legal agreement schools must follow.
  

• An IEP is a legally binding document under IDEA.
  

• Schools cannot deny accommodations due to lack of funds or resources.
  

Reminding staff of these protections may encourage compliance.

✅ 4. Request a Formal Meeting

If informal conversations don’t resolve the issue:

• Request a 504 or IEP team meeting in writing.
  

• Bring your documentation, including emails, test results, or medical records supporting your request.
  

• Prepare to propose solutions or compromises if needed.
  

✅ 5. Request a Written Prior Notice (IEP Only)

Schools under IDEA must provide a Prior Written Notice (PWN) whenever they refuse a parent’s request for accommodations or services. This document must state:

• What was refused
  

• Why it was refused
  

• What data or evaluations support the decision
  

This can be a powerful advocacy tool for parents.

✅ 6. File a Formal Complaint or Request Mediation

If the school continues to refuse:

• 504 Plan: File a complaint with the U.S. Department of Education’s Office for Civil Rights (OCR).
  

• IEP: File a complaint with your state education agency or request due process.
  

These steps can prompt schools to act quickly to avoid legal repercussions.

How an Advocate Can Help

Educational advocates can:

• Review your child’s current plan for missing supports
  

• Attend meetings to ensure your voice is heard
  

• Help draft strong, evidence-based accommodation requests
  

• Guide you through filing complaints or OCR cases
  

Having professional support often leads to faster, more positive resolutions.

Key Takeaway

You are your child’s strongest advocate, and you have the legal right to ensure they receive every support they need to succeed. If your school refuses accommodations, don’t give up—document everything, know your rights, and seek professional help if necessary.

#504PlanRights #IEPHelpTX #ParentAdvocacyTheWoodlands #SpecialEducationSupport"