Parentally Placed Private School Students

Catholic schools are not required to provide services or support for students with disabilities who are parentally placed. Catholic schools are also not required by law to offer students a 504 plan or provide services indicated on an Individual Education Plan (IEP) or Service Plan (SP).

Although not required, the Diocese of Orlando Catholic Schools, based on available resources at individual schools do provide a variety of learning environments and programs for students with special needs. Diocesan schools are located in several different counties. Support and resources for private school students vary from district to district. Both private school and public school programs are constantly being evaluated and changed.

Admission Process for Students with Special Needs

The admission process for students into an elementary or high school in the Diocese of Orlando, who have already been identified as having special needs, begins with a review of the student’s records. Before admitting a student the school evaluates the student’s needs to determine if the school has the ability to provide appropriate resources and support. The administration of each school reviews the documentation, conducts an interview, and makes admission decisions.

Special Needs School

Morning Star is a school for students with significant disabilities.

Considerations

Students who are accepted and enroll in a private school with an Individual Education Plan (IEP) no longer have the same rights and services. Once enrolled in a private school, the IEP will be converted into a Service Plan (SP) through the local public school district. Parents are responsible for making arrangements with the district to begin this process. A service plan provides limited services and support from the public school and varies from district to district.

Students with special needs are expected to abide by the procedures and policies of the school’s Parent/Student Handbook. Parents are required to meet service-hour contracts, fundraising obligations and attend parent conferences.

Family Empowerment Scholarships

The Family Empowerment Scholarship Program for Students with Unique Abilities is designed to offer families of students with disabilities, as young as 3 years of age, access to additional education options. Families may choose to receive a personal education savings account (ESA) for their student. An ESA can be used to fund private school tuition and fees, as well as online learning programs, private tutoring, community college costs, higher education expenses and other approved customized learning services and materials.

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