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Together is a new resource for anyone affected by pediatric cancer - patients and their parents, family members, and friends.
Learn MoreHomebound school services help children with a medical condition keep up with school when they are unable to attend in person. Homebound education may be an option when your child can’t attend school for several weeks because of cancer, sickle cell disease, or other serious illness. Your child may also need homebound education if they have a weak immune system after treatment.
Homebound school services help your child stay current with regular classes and get appropriate credit and grades.
Your hospital may have a school liaison who can help you set up homebound services for your child. If not, you can set up services by following these steps:
For homebound education to work well, it is important to have regular communication with your child’s teacher:
When your child is ready to return to school, the teacher can help with the transition.
Federal law requires that the school continue to provide an Individualized Education Plan (IEP).
Under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), the school system must have an IEP meeting if the child is out of school for 2 weeks or more (10 school days in a row). This meeting will decide how the school will provide services.
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Reviewed: July 2024
Treatment for childhood cancer, blood disorders, and other serious illnesses may have long-lasting side effects that can affect learning. Federal law provides for supports and services through Individualized Educational Programs (IEP) and 504 Plans.
If your child has a serious illness, keeping up with school can be a challenge. Learn how to meet your child’s education needs during illness and hospital stays.
Learn how to support your school-aged child during cancer or other serious illness.