School ADHD Forms Are Not Discontinued at a Specific Age
School-based ADHD documentation and support services continue through age 18 (the end of high school), with no predetermined age for discontinuation. 1
Age Range for School-Based ADHD Services
The American Academy of Pediatrics guidelines explicitly address ADHD management through age 18 (the 18th birthday), establishing this as the upper boundary for pediatric ADHD care that includes school-based interventions. 1
Elementary and middle school children (ages 6-12) require educational interventions including Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) or 504 plans as a necessary part of treatment. 1
Adolescents (ages 12-18) continue to need school environment modifications, class placement adjustments, instructional supports, and behavioral accommodations through IEPs or 504 plans. 1
Research demonstrates that 51.6% of high school students with ADHD history receive services through IEPs or 504 plans, indicating active school-based support continues through the high school years. 2
Transition Planning Replaces Discontinuation
Rather than discontinuing school forms at a specific age, the focus shifts to transition planning starting around age 14 (beginning of high school). 1
Transition to adult care is introduced as a component during high school years, with specific focus during the 2 years preceding high school completion. 1
This represents a gradual handoff to adult services rather than an abrupt termination of school-based documentation. 1
Why School Forms Continue Through Age 18
Untreated or inadequately supported ADHD carries substantial risks that justify continued school accommodations throughout adolescence. 1, 3
Students with ADHD face increased risk for early death, suicide, psychiatric comorbidity, lower educational achievement, and increased incarceration rates. 1, 3
ADHD symptoms persist through adolescence in most cases, with hyperactive symptoms declining but inattentive symptoms continuing. 1
Academic and behavioral impairments remain significant through high school, with ADHD associated with poor grades, increased grade retention, and lower high school graduation rates. 4
Common Pitfall to Avoid
Do not assume adolescents "outgrow" the need for school accommodations. While overt hyperactivity may decrease with age, inattention and executive function deficits persist and continue to impair academic performance through high school. 1, 4 The median age of ADHD diagnosis is 7 years, but management requirements extend through the entire school career. 1