Nina Hennessy-Tamburo was admitted to the practice of law in 1988. She began her career as an Associate at the law firm of O’Keefe Ashenden Lyons and Ward, in Chicago, IL, now known as O’Keefe Lyons & Hynes, LLC. Her practice focused on the representation of taxpayers before the Cook County Assessor and the Cook County Board of Review. She also represented not-for-profit organizations and municipalities in tax deed proceedings in the Circuit Court of Cook County. Nina rose to the level of partner in 1998 then made the difficult decision to leave practice in 1999 to focus on her family.
Nina developed a passion for Special Education Law while advocating for her children. She believes that all children regardless of their disability or learning style, are entitled to a free and appropriate education in accordance with Federal law. Children with learning differences are not required to adapt to the generalized teaching methods of public education, but rather, public education must adapt to meet the learning styles of our children.
Nina understands the challenges that parents face in obtaining an appropriate education for their children and the frustration of navigating the maze of special education law with your child’s school. Please contact her to discuss your experience in the public school system and to obtain her support, guidance and advocacy.
CONTACTWhen a child does not progress to meet grade level or State required standards, the school may use scientific, research-based instruction to support the child in reaching grade level.
KNOW MORESection 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 provides protection for students with disabilities in schools that receive Federal financial assistance. Students cannot be excluded from participation in programs, denied the benefits of activities, or be discriminated against solely based upon their disability.
KNOW MOREThe Individuals with Disabilities Education Act, 20 U.S.C. §1400 et.seq. is the primary law that provides for the education of children with disabilities. It directs schools to create an Individual Education Program for students with disabilities when their disabilities interfere with academic achievement and performance.
KNOW MOREIf your child is not progressing in school and you believe the school is not supporting your child appropriately, you have several options including the filing of a request for evaluation for special education services, a request for a 504 Plan, a complaint with the Office of Civil Rights and file a Due Process Complaint.
KNOW MOREWith today's signing of the landmark Americans for Disabilities Act, every man, woman, and child with a disability can now pass through once-closed doors into a bright new era of equality, independence, and freedom.
Our challenges are great, but our will is greater. And in our America, the most generous, optimistic nation on the face of the Earth, we must not and will not rest until every man and woman with a dream has the means to achieve it.