/*/*/*/*/*/*I havd ADHD, Why wont my high school do anything about it?

Question

I have ADD and my school isnt doing anything about it. Im a Junior in high school, my parents set up a meeting up with the counselor and teachers, and they arent doing a thing about it. I failed 4 classes last year because they never put me in special ed or anything. the normal classroom pace is just 2 much 4 me and no 1 is taking this seriously. about 4 years ago, doctor gave me medicine for it and i stopped taking it after a week..for no reason, and now, 4 years later, i realise that i ahve this problem and there is a solution to it. so i went to a psychiatrist, and she tested me, and i know shes going to say i have ADD, and so what can i do if she gives it to me in writing? Can i show the proof to my school?> will they have to do something about it? will they have to put me in special ed? or anything which will help me? what is they dont? btw im going in 2 days to get the results from the doctor. Please Help! any kind of serious answers will be highly appreciated.

Answer 1

If you have ADD or ADHD you are protected under the American's with Disabilities Act and the school is obligated to take "reasonable" actions to assist you (an example would be some extra attention from teachers).

Something important that you need to know is that MOST people who are diagnosed with ADD and/or ADHD tend to have a higher level of intelligence than the "average" population - however due to the way our brains are wired, we learn in a different manner than the general population.  It's hard to remember that neither side of the fence is better or worse - we are all just different.

Good Luck - take your meds (I take Adderall), they will make a WORLD of difference!

Answer 2

Any results from a psychariatrist should be considered by the school.  Your school also has a ton of paperwork and testing of their own to do.  To begin this, your parents need to put a request in writing.  "I want my son, XX, to be fully evaluated for special education services."  would suffice to begin the process.  Your parents can add the doctor's results at that time.  The school can NOT make big decisions in regards to your education with just the ADD diagnosis on its own.  They still need more information regarding your abilities, etc.  

Your parents do NOT have to wait until the first day of school to get the process start it.  Why don't they email the principal tomorrow and/or send over a fax?  Even if your doc says you don't have ADD, you still have the ball rolling to get some help.  Best wishes!

Answer 3

You need to be tested for it, and get an IEP.  If you have been tested for it then you should be able to get an IEP or at least have one.  Until you have one of those there is not much your school can do to help you.  Try getting an IEP.  That is the only way your school will put you in special education is if you have an IEP.