Blog
Check back here for consistent content focused on the special education system from IEPs to information about the ways school districts are misusing funds and much more.
Do I have a right to my student’s education records?
All parents and/or guardians of a special needs child who has an Independent Education Plan (IEP) and is receiving services under the IDEA, has two very specific rights; 1) to fully participate in the IEP process and 2) the right to their student’s education records....
How is an IEP developed, reviewed and revised?
Developing an IEP is not the singular responsibility of any one IEP team member. Instead, the development of an IEP is the responsibility of the entire IEP team including the general education teacher, the special education teacher and all of the related service...
Placement Outside of the Public School Setting
Sometimes a public school district does not have an appropriate setting for a student and their special needs. When this happens, it is possible that a school district will propose a non-public school setting forthe student. What is a non-public school setting?A...
When Does an IEP Have to Be in Effect?
A student’s IEP must be in effect by the beginning of each school year. This includes an IEP or IFSP for children ages 3-5 years old. For our students who are over the age of five years, an initial IEP andprovision of services must be provided with the beginning of...
Parent Participation
Parent participation is the cornerstone of any IEP process or meeting or decision about a student’s IEP and special education experience. Without parental participation anything the team decides to implement can be questioned by the parent and consent can be refused....
How Do I Get My Child Evaluated for Special Education Services?
Many parents ask us, “how do I get my child evaluated for special education?” A parent or another person involved with the student and their education can request an initial evaluation for special education if they suspect the child might have a disability that is...
What is included in an Individualized Education Plan?
Parents who are participating in their child’s first Individualized Education Plan (IEP) may not know what all of the components of an IEP are, or how the areas of an IEP work together to form a comprehensive individualized education plan for their child. When...
The Participants That Make Up An IEP Team
The IEP team members are dictated by the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act. The IEP teammembers must include the following persons. The parents of the child At least one regular education teacher At least one special education teacher A representative of the...
Parental Consent: What are my rights as a parent?
When a parent first becomes aware of the possibility that their child might be a student in need of special education services, it can be very concerning and confusing. There are a few ways in which parents can be alerted to their child having special needs. Some...