A Parent Guide to Special Education Law Proactive Advocacy

As a parent and advocate, you are the only constant team member. Other IEP team members— teachers, therapists, and administrators—revolve and eventually fade. You need to make your unique viewpoint as meaningful as possible. However, the laws governing special education are complex; full of confusing terms, rigid timelines, and complicated decisions. This guide translates the legalese and organizes the material, making it user friendly. As you learn more about these laws, you will gain a sense of equality and confidence that will make you a more effective and proactive advocate for your child.Wherever you are on the special education journey, this guide will help you learn: •The school district’s responsibilities,•Your child’s rights,•Your rights as the parent of a special education student, •Techniques to help you come to each IEP meeting informed and prepared, and•How to be a proactive (rather than reactive) advocate.Using charts, graphs, examples, and other resources, this guide lays out the referral, eligibility, IEP, student discipline, ITP, and dispute resolution processes with an emphasis on maximizing the parents' role as an advocate for the best outcomes for their child. Citations to relevant law are included throughout the manual.