Emergency Plans for students with special needs

On July 22, 2004, President George W. Bush signed Executive Order 13347,
Individuals with Disabilities in Emergency Preparedness, which adds to existing
legislation policy to ensure that the safety and security of individuals with
disabilities are appropriately supported and requires public entities to include the
unique needs of individuals with disabilities in their emergency preparedness
planning.

Federal law mandates that every child will receive a free and appropriate public
education (FAPE) in the least restrictive environment. Children who experience
difficulties in school, due to physical or psychiatric disorders, emotional or behavioral problems and/or learning disorders or disabilities are entitled to receive special services or accommodations through the public schools. To support their ability to learn in school and participate in the benefits of any district program or activity, including emergency preparedness and school safety plans, three Federal laws apply to children with special needs:

•  Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 (amended 2008)

• Individuals with Disabilities Education Act of 1975 (amended 1997)

• Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 (revised 1978)

NICHCY.org

Does your child's IEP offer a description of factors that elevate risk in the event of an emergency situation?  Are the para's trained in this plan?

In addition to students with disabilities specified under IDEA law, the school site
administrator or designee must identify individuals with a temporary impediment such as a broken leg or hidden impairments such asthma, panic attacks, significant allergies or heart conditions. Students with such documented medical conditions may not have an IEP in place that would highlight the need for continuing a special medical regime, particularly during a crisis or disaster.

Here is a fabulus example of a Emergency Plan for students with special needs.