Unlocking School Support

Many families in Minnesota struggle to access the special education services their children need, often running into confusing processes, inconsistent school practices, or delays that leave students without the supports they are legally entitled to. These barriers can make it difficult for students with disabilities to fully participate and succeed in school.

One SMRLS client—a middle school student with autism—was being sent home early every day because the school district counted his special education hours from the moment he arrived on campus. He came early for the free breakfast program with his siblings and needed paraprofessional support during that time. Instead of providing that support, the school treated breakfast as the start of his special education day and claimed his hours were “used up” by midday, forcing him to leave early.

SMRLS played a crucial role in protecting this middle school student with autism, who’s access to education was negatively impacted by a discriminatory school policy. The district counted the student’s special education hours from the moment he arrived on campus—even during the free breakfast program, where he needed paraprofessional support—so by midday they claimed his “hours were used up” and forced him to leave.

SMRLS recognized that this practice violated the ADA and Section 504, which require schools to give students with disabilities equal access to all school programs. By challenging the policy, SMRLS ensured the student could stay for the full school day, participate in breakfast with his siblings, and avoid being excluded because of his disability. This advocacy not only protected the student’s rights but also promoted a more fair and inclusive school environment.

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