1. What is the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA)?
Answer:
IDEA is a federal law ensuring that children with disabilities receive a free and appropriate public education (FAPE) tailored to their individual needs. It mandates:
Development of an Individualized Education Program (IEP).
Provision of services in the least restrictive environment (LRE).
Parental involvement in decision-making.
2. What is an Individualized Education Program (IEP)?
Answer:
An IEP is a written plan that outlines the specific educational goals, services, and accommodations for a child with a disability. It is developed collaboratively by parents, teachers, and specialists, and it is reviewed annually.
3. What is Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act?
Answer:
Section 504 of this law prohibits disability-related discrimination within schools that have funding connected with the federal government. This applies to modifications of appropriate supports for students who are not technically eligible to receive an IEP but require such services also (e.g., extended time on tests, wheelchair-accessible facilities).
Read Also:
- https://quantumlawsolutions.com/10-frequently-asked-questions-about-students-rights-and-protections/
- https://quantumlawsolutions.com/8-questions-parents-ask-about-school-policies-and-laws/
- https://quantumlawsolutions.com/12-questions-on-legal-rights-in-higher-education/
4. What rights do parents have under special education laws?
Answer:
Parents are entitled to:
Participate in all meetings connected to their child’s education
Request evaluations or reevaluations to determine eligibility for services.
Review and appeal changes made in their child’s IEP.
File a complaint or mediation request if the decision is disputed.
5. If parents have disagreements with school decisions about education:
Parents may do the following
Request due process hearing in dispute of decision
File complaint at the state educational agency
Request mediation of disagreement
Contact organizations specializing in advocacy of special education law.