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These are different matters. Seeking FAPE or reimbursement from the DEPR differs from alleging discrimination, mistreatment, contractual breach, or damages against the school. One situation may require examining several routes.
Legal coverage matters
Section 504 depends on federal financial assistance. ADA Title III covers many private schools but has an exception for religious entities. Do not assume every private school has the DEPR’s exact duties or is exempt from all legal protections.
Organize the facts
Identify the decision-maker, challenged conduct, requested support, and response. Keep policies, enrollment contracts, communications, and evidence of effects on the student. Applicable law and remedies depend on those facts.
Scope of our practice
Our special-education practice focuses on claims involving the DEPR’s IDEA obligations. The office does not ordinarily handle civil discrimination or mistreatment claims against private schools. If the matter also involves a DEPR failure, we can evaluate that part separately.
The answer for your situation depends on the facts and records. An inquiry does not suspend legal deadlines or guarantee that the office will accept the case.
Reference sources
U.S. ED OCR · Sección 504: cobertura y servicios / Coverage and services28 C.F.R. Part 36, §§36.102, 36.104, 36.302 · Escuelas privadas y ADA / Private schools and ADA34 C.F.R. § 300.148 · Private placement and reimbursementRules must be read in context. This explanation may require updating and individual review.