Navigating School ABA Services: Advocating for Your Child in Public and Private Schools

For many families, securing Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) services within a school setting can feel like an uphill battle. Whether your child attends public or private school, you may encounter roadblocks—ranging from lack of staff training, limited funding, or even outright resistance from administrators. But with the right knowledge and strategies, you can become the strongest advocate for your child’s education and support.

Understanding Your Child’s Rights

• Public Schools (IDEA & FAPE):Under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), children with qualifying disabilities are entitled to a Free Appropriate Public Education (FAPE). If your child requires ABA strategies to make meaningful progress, those supports can be written into their Individualized Education Program (IEP).

• Private Schools:Private schools are not bound by IDEA in the same way. Some may offer accommodations voluntarily, but they are not required to provide comprehensive ABA services. Parents often supplement with home-based ABA or hire private aides to support their child in class.

Common Challenges Families Face

1. “We Don’t Do ABA Here.”Some schools are unfamiliar with ABA or assume it is only for children with autism. In reality, ABA principles support learning, social skills, and behavior management for a wide range of needs.

2. Limited Resources.Schools may claim they lack funding for trained ABA staff or one-on-one support. While budgets are real concerns, your child’s right to FAPE means services must be based on need, not cost.

3. Pushback on Outside Providers.Families sometimes want private ABA therapists to support their child in school. Some schools resist this due to liability, classroom management, or philosophical differences.

Steps to Advocate Effectively

1. Document Everything.Keep records of your child’s challenges, progress, and any data from outside ABA providers. This evidence helps build the case that ABA is educationally necessary.

2. Request an IEP Meeting (for Public Schools).Put your request for ABA-based supports in writing. The school must respond and consider evaluations or outside reports that highlight ABA as an appropriate intervention.

3. Bring an Advocate or BCBA.You don’t have to face the school team alone. Many parents bring a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) or education advocate to IEP meetings to help clarify the need for ABA strategies.

4. Be Collaborative but Firm.Position yourself as a partner, not an adversary. Say things like: “We want to work together to help [child’s name] succeed.” At the same time, don’t back down when it comes to legal rights under IDEA.

5. Know When to Escalate.If the school refuses necessary supports, you may pursue due process hearings, state complaints, or mediation. While this step can be daunting, many families find resolution once schools realize parents know their rights.

Tips for Private School Families

• Negotiate Early. Talk to the school administration before enrollment about your child’s needs.

• Supplement Strategically. If the school can’t provide ABA, arrange after-school services or consider a trained paraprofessional (sometimes at parent expense).

• Leverage Public Resources. In some states, public school districts provide limited support to students enrolled in private schools through “equitable services.”

Advocating for ABA services in school is rarely easy—but you are not alone. Every child deserves the tools and supports needed to learn, thrive, and feel included. By understanding the law, documenting your child’s needs, and standing firm in your advocacy, you can help ensure your child gets the education they deserve—whether in public or private school.

Remember: You are your child’s strongest advocate. Persistence, patience, and preparation make all the difference.