Under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), your input is not only welcomed—it's legally required! The IDEA recognizes parents as essential partners in ensuring children receive the services and support they need. But where exactly does your input come in, and how can you make sure your voice is heard?
1. Identification and Referral: Trust Your Instincts
You know your child better than anyone. If you suspect they may have a disability affecting their learning, you have the right to request an evaluation for special education services. Don’t wait for the school to come to you—be proactive and trust your instincts.
Pro Tip: The school cannot begin an evaluation without your consent. They must obtain your approval before starting the process.
2. Evaluation: Getting a Complete Picture
The evaluation serves two key purposes:
To determine if your child has a disability as recognized under the IDEA.
To assess if they require special education services due to academic or behavioral
concerns.
Your child must meet both criteria to qualify for an Individualized Education Program (IEP). If
you disagree with the school’s evaluation, you can request an independent educational
evaluation (IEE) to ensure all aspects of your child’s needs are thoroughly considered.
3. IEP Development: You’re a Team Player
If your child qualifies, the next step is developing their IEP. The IEP team, including you, collaborates to create a customized plan that addresses your child’s unique needs. Your voice is crucial—share your insights about your child’s strengths, challenges, and the type of support they need. You know what works and what doesn’t for your child, so make sure the team hears your perspective.
During IEP meetings, you’ll discuss:
Goals for your child over the school year.
The services and supports needed to achieve those goals.
Your child’s classroom placement and how much time they’ll spend with their general education peers.
Remember: Changes to your child’s IEP must almost always be made during an IEP team
meeting. You should always be included in these decisions.
4. IEP Review: Keep the Conversation Going
Creating the IEP isn’t a one-time event. It’s reviewed annually, but you can request a meeting to
review or update the IEP at any time. If your child’s progress or challenges change, this is your
opportunity to adjust the plan to ensure they continue receiving the right support.
5. Placement Decisions: Be Part of the Big Decisions
One of the most significant decisions the IEP team makes is where your child will be placed.
IDEA requires that schools consider the least restrictive environment (LRE), meaning your child
should be in a general education classroom as much as possible. Your input helps find the
balance between support and independence for your child.
6. Procedural Safeguards: Know Your Rights
At every stage of the special education process, you should receive a document outlining your
rights. This guide explains your rights under IDEA, including access to mediation, due process
hearings, and how to file a complaint if you disagree with the school’s decisions.
7. Transition Planning: Thinking About the Future
When your child reaches around age 16, the IEP team will work with you and your child to
create a transition plan for life after high school. This plan helps your child set goals for
education after high school, employment, or independent living.
Your Role: The Key to Your Child’s Success
As a parent, you are a powerful advocate for your child’s success. You have the right to be
involved at every stage of the special education process, from the initial evaluation to transition
planning. The more engaged and informed you are, the better you can support your child’s
journey through special education.
Don’t worry if you don’t know everything right away. It’s perfectly fine to ask questions, request
more time, or seek outside advice. The goal of IDEA is for you and the school to work together
to ensure your child’s success.
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