Children & Young Adult Services FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions About Children & Young Adult Services
1. What services, resources, and supports are available for my child and my family?
Children who meet the eligibility criteria are assigned a Service Coordinator who can assist them with accessing Denver Options’ Family Support Program, as well as other community and educational resources for both the child and family members. Intake Services FAQ
2. What are adult services and how do I access them?
Unlike public education, adult services are not an entitlement, therefore there can be very lengthy waiting lists for the services your child may need in the future. It is very important that families find out if their son or daughter will be eligible for adult services, and get on the waiting list by the time they are 14 years old. Once in active adult services, agencies can assist with residential and vocational needs of the child whether they are still living with their family or independently outside the family home. Intake Services FAQ
3. What is IDEA?
The Individual with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) is a federal law that entitles children with delays and disabilities (and their families) to certain supports, services and rights.
Early Intervention FAQ
4. What is an IEP (Individualized Education Plan)?
An IEP is your child’s plan for what he or she is going to accomplish in the upcoming school year. It includes goals and objectives, written in a format that is easily understood by anyone working with the child. The plan should also include the criteria for evaluating the outcome for each objective, as well as who is responsible for each goal. Your Service Coordinator can assist you with understanding the IEP and can attend meetings at your child’s school whenever necessary.
5. What is a Transition Plan, and how is that different from my child’s IEP?
A transition plan, also facilitated by the school district, is a time when you begin to identify services and supports your child will need to move into adulthood. A focus on appropriate academic and vocational supports necessary for your child to graduate will begin between the ages of 14 and 16. A look at what functional training a child will need in the community is also an important part to success in adulthood (i.e., using bank services, grocery shopping, learning bus routes, etc.)
6. Can my child stay in school after the age of 18?
School districts are mandated to provide students receiving Special Education services until the end of the semester in which they turn 21. Some students may choose to walk through commencement ceremonies at 18, and have their diploma held until 21, so that they may pursue other educational programs outside of their high school classroom. Others will choose to remain in their high school classes for further training in community-based life skills until the age of 21.
7. What are the guardianship issues I need to address?
Guardianship is a personal choice which should be considered carefully by the child, and his or her family, prior to the age of 18. Guardianship grants the parent, or family member, the responsibility of making decisions in such areas as legal matters, money management and medical, among others, for their child with a disability. Guardianship is a court proceeding which entails paperwork being completed and filed with the City and County Probate Court. The Guardianship Alliance 303-423-2898 or The Legal Center (303) 722-0300 can provide some assistance with this process.
8. How do I stay informed and find out what is available for my child?
Ask questions, go to meetings and educational events, attend resource fairs, become familiar with resource guides, and talk with your Service Coordinator on a regular basis.
|
