Expert: James Michael Roan - 2/21/2008

Question
James,
My two nephews have pervasive developmental disorders (they are 8).  They are both in a small public school, and one of them has his own aide, but they are still behind the other kids.  There is a special school that has "worked wonders" for other local autistic children, but my sister knows that she and her husband would not be able to afford it.  I've heard that childrent with these type of disorders can get disability insurance, or maybe even grants, that would help pay for this type of schooling.  What do you know about this?  Where can I further my research?  
Thanks,
Teresa

Answer
Hi Teresa;

The first place to start is with your state's version of the Department of Developmental Disabilities. Every state is different and continually finding ways to reduce support for these kids. The autism center in your state's university would be able to tell you where to go for grant money if there is any.

Again, depending on your state, you can sometimes get your school district to pay for a special school placement, especially if you can document "lack of adequate progress" and threaten them with legal action. It's worth a shot.

That's all I have.

Kind regards,
James