Students who learn differently oftentimes require more help in school. Under federal law, students with disabilities that impact their ability to learn can be evaluated for special education.

If a student is found eligible for special educational services, the school must work with them and their family to develop an IEP. An IEP is an annually updated document that includes information about the student’s strengths and weaknesses as well as the specific services they require to make academic progress, such as specialized instruction, smaller class sizes and counseling services.

If you are a DC student with an IEP, you have the right to attend high school and access special education services until the end of the school year in which you turn 22-years-old. You still have this right even if you are incarcerated at a juvenile security facility or at the DC Jail. 

If you are 18-years-old or younger, you have a right to attend your free neighborhood (“boundary”) school. Generally, if you want to attend a public charter school or a public school other than your boundary school, you must enter the My School DC Lottery.

Re-engaging in school can feel overwhelming after time in a secure facility, but SJP is here to support students returning to the community.  Review our Back to School one-pager and reach out to us if you have additional questions regarding enrollment options, key educational documents, or other transition considerations.

If you think you might need extra support in school, SJP may be able to help.  Contact us at info@sjpdc.org for more information.