Can Teachers Require Me to Put My Child on ADD/ADHD Medication?
No. Teachers and school administration cannot require you to put your child on prescription medication. 34 CFR 300.174 (a). Medication can never be a condition of attending school. Medication can never be a condition of receiving special education evaluations, services or accommodations.
Can Teachers Talk to Me About ADD/ADHD Medication?
Yes. The law explicitly allows teachers and school personnel to share their observations about your child's classroom behavior and performance. 34 CFR 300.174 (b). If a teacher believes your child exhibits signs of ADD/ADHD, it is permissible for the teacher to communicate that to you. Similarly, if your child's teacher notices that your child's behavior and attention is worse at the end of the day, they can share that information with you.
Can The School Refuse to Administer ADD/ADHD Medication?
No. If your child needs to take medication during the school day to participate effectively in his educational program, then the school is required by law to administer that medication.
If you have questions about your ADD/ADHD child's education rights, contact Massachusetts North Shore special education lawyer Lillian E. Wong.
Education Law and ADD/ADHD Medication