Question 9.

Does the school have to provide an interpreter for my deaf son? What does the law say?

Answer

Yes. If your son is deaf, he has unique needs. The school is required to provide the services he needs.

Related services are the developmental, corrective, and supportive services your child needs to meet the measurable goals in his IEP and receive a free, appropriate public education (FAPE).

Interpreting services are related services.

The federal special education regulations include "special interpreting services for children who are deaf-blind" and an interpreting service.

Your child's IEP should include the frequency, duration, location, and projected dates for each related service, (i.e., when an interpreter will be provided).

Related services personnel should be included on your child's IEP team when a particular service will be discussed. The interpreter has special knowledge and expertise and can provide recommendations about what service is needed and how it can be provided. Either the parent of the school may invite people who have special knowledge and expertise to IEP meetings.

Legal Resource

Wrightslaw: Special Education Law, 2nd Edition

Wrightslaw: All About IEPs Chapter 7 - Special Factors in IEPs

IDEA

20 U.S.C.§ 1401(26)

20 U.S.C.§ 1414(d)(3)(B)(iv) and (iv)

IDEA Regulations

34 C.F.R. §300.34(c)(4)

34 C.F.R. §300.320(a)(7)

34 C.F.R. §300.324(a)(2)(iv) and (iv)

Additional Resources

Communication Needs (page 21)

Special Factors: Communication Needs When Child is Deaf or Hard of Hearing

Deafness and Hearing Loss

Assistive Technology Devices and Services

The Law and the IEP for Deaf Students with Disabilities

Does My Deaf/Hard of Hearing Child Need an IEP?

Board of Ed. of Hendrick Hudson Central School Dist. v. Rowley 458 U.S. 176 (1982). First decision in a special education case by the U. S. Supreme Court; defined "free appropriate public education.

Interpreter as Teacher? Not in IDEA

Classroom Interpreting

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