The Foreign Service Journal, December 2015

EDUCATION SUPPLEMENT 70 DECEMBER 2015 | THE FOREIGN SERVICE JOURNAL overseas are not legally required to pro- vide educational opportunities to all stu- dents. Historically, independent schools have not provided many accommoda- tions for students with special needs. Fortunately, the overseas land- scape for special needs education has improved over the past 15 years. Advances in technology have made the successful delivery of speech and occupational therapy via the Internet a much more viable option. And many international, independent schools now provide support for students with mild learning disabilities. Families should be aware, however, that even when a school offers this sup- port there are often limitations, including spaces available in these programs. Also, international educators—like members of the Foreign Service—are mobile; and, therefore, special needs services offered at a school one year may not be available the next. Foreign Service parents must do their pre-bidding homework to decide if their children’s special needs will be adequately supported by the programs and resources available at post. If a par- ent has a child with special needs or sus- pects a child may need learning support, they should contact the Department of State’s Child and Family Program at MEDCFP@state.gov . About Education Allowances CFP can inform families of the spe- cial needs services available at certain posts and give information on how to access the Special Needs Education Allowance. Also, the Office of Overseas Schools (www.state.gov/m/a/os ) can supply information about special educa- tion services provided by their regional education officers. Fortunately, the overseas landscape for special needs education has improved over the past 15 years.