An Overview of IDEA Parent Guide - Page 2

Throughout this guide, these important terms are used:

• Parent.

  The term “parent” is used to refer to a natural or adoptive parent, an individual acting in place of a natural or adoptive parent (such as a grandparent), a foster parent, a guardian or a surrogate parent.

   

• School district.

  The terms “school district” and “school” are used interchangeably to refer to the entity that has legal authority, control and responsibility for public education in a city, county, town (or combination of these), or other subdivision of a state. Depending on the size of your school and school district, you might find yourself dealing with someone at your local school or at a district-level office regarding special education matters.

   

• Special education.

  The term “special education” means specially designed instruction, at no cost to parents, to meet the unique needs of a child with a disability. Depending on your child’s needs as well as the state, school district and local school policies, special education services may be offered in a variety of ways and in a variety of settings.

   

As you will discover, special education is complex — full of confusing terms, rigid timelines, and complicated decisions. However, IDEA makes it clear that parents are full and equal partners with schools in determining and meeting the needs of a student with a disability. So be sure to approach your child’s educational needs with a sense of equality and confidence. In your advocacy, treat others with respect and expect the same in return.

Some quick tips before starting out:

• Get organized.

  You will need to organize your child’s educational records in order to work effectively with school personnel. Throughout this guide you will find helpful tips on the records you need to maintain.

   

• Ask questions.

  Don’t be afraid to ask, ask and ask again. Understanding the special education process will help you to be the best advocate for your child. Take full advantage of all the resources and information available to you.

   

• Network.

  Find local organizations that will offer you the opportunity to talk with other parents who have children receiving special education. The local policies and practices of your local school district are a big part of what you will experience. The people who make important decisions about those policies and practices are important to know, too. So finding other parents to talk to and learn from is critical to your advocacy. Local or state chapters of disability-related organizations and your local PTA or other parent-teacher organization are just a few places to start.

Remember: Regardless of where you might be in the special education process, it’s best to read this guide from beginning to end. That way, you’ll gain an understanding of the process and how all its pieces fit together.

Also, remember that this guide was created to provide a basic understanding of the key requirements of IDEA. The information presented in the IDEA Parent Guide is not legal advice and should not be used as a legal resource.

Download a FREE e-book: "IDEA Parent Guide"

• An Overview of IDEA Parent Guide
• Chapter 1: Pre-Referral Services
• Chapter 2: Response-to-Intervention
• Chapter 3: Referral/Request for Evaluation
• Chapter 4: Procedural Safeguards — Understanding and Exercising Your Legal Rights
• Chapter 5: Evaluation: Learning More About Your Child
• Chapter 6: Eligibility Determination: Determining Your Child's Need for Special Education
• Chapter 7: Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) — Developing Your Child's Education Plan
• Chapter 8: Transition — Planning Your Child's Future Success
• Chapter 9: Students in Private School: Understanding Your Child's Special Education Options
• Chapter 10: Student Discipline — Addressing Serious Behavior Issues and Concerns
• Chapter 11: Dispute Resolution Options — Understanding Your Options for Settling Disputes