We can help.
For adoptees, school can come with its own set of unique challenges and opportunities. Whether you are a parent, educator, or another caring professional we’re here to help you create a positive and inclusive school experience for adopted youth.
Featured Training
Free until September 30th using code BackToSchool24
An Adoption Professional's Guide to School-Based Support
This course equips adoption professionals with the knowledge and strategies to better assist adoptive families navigating educational challenges, such as IEPs, 504 plans, and the impact of early childhood trauma on academics.
For more information on this webinar and continuing education credits please click the button below.
Facts & Statistics
Meese (1999); Van IJzendoorn, Juffer, & Poelhuis (2006); Ringeisen, Casanueva, Cross, & Urato (2009)
Relevant Resources
Tips and Resources
For Adoptive Parents, Educators and Other Professionals
of teachers reported receiving professional training about adoption
of teachers reported feeling "very prepared" by their training to work with adopted students and families
of teachers wanted to know more about a child's adoptive status/history but were unsure of how/who to ask
IEP and 504 Plan Basics
Assessment and Intervention
Assessments provide a comprehensive baseline of the child’s current strengths and challenges and are critical for establishing effective interventions.
Interventions such as language and speech support, social-emotional adaptations, and provision of trauma competency training for professionals assist children and their families. Common services include speech therapy, physical therapy, occupational therapy and transportation services.
Key educational interventions include:
- IEPs or 504 plans
- Parent-teacher partnerships
- Necessary out-of-school services (i.e., mental health counseling)
- Teacher interventions
- Trainings
- Classroom adjustments sensitive to adoption and trauma
- Parental interventions
- Parental responsiveness, sensitivity and support
- Attachment
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Important Educational Laws
Rehabilitation Act of 1973
- Part of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)
- Establishes 504 Plans
- Mandates that all public schools must provide children with disabilities with accommodations and supports that will help them fully participate in education and all school-related activities
Individuals with Disabilities and Education Act (IDEA)
- Establishes Individualized Education Plans (IEPs)
- Provides that all children are guaranteed a free, appropriate, public education in the least restrictive environment