The following links provide information for parents:
- Wrightslaw
This site is dedicated to providing legal help with special education issue. Here you can read and get information on the federal law that governs special education, Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) – both the 1997 law as well as the 2004 modifications. Information on other relevant laws, such as the Family Education Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) a federal law that limits access to educational records without parental consent is also available at the site.
- The National Information Center for Children and Youth with Disabilities
NICHCY is an information clearinghouse that provides free information on disabilities and related issues, focusing on children and youth (birth to age 25). Free services include personal responses, referrals, technical assistance, and information searches.
State and local laws and regulations often differ somewhat from federal regulations. Contact an attorney, advocate or other person knowledgeable about special education laws that apply to your school district. School systems naturally want to serve students well, keep within the bounds of the law, and spend taxpayers’ money carefully. When serious disagreements arise as to what is appropriate within special education regulations, it is important for parents to have solid legal advice. A special education advocate, either a lawyer or another person well-versed in the law and experienced in advocating for children, can be called upon for assistance. To find an advocate, look in your telephone book. You might also ask an organization for a referral. Go to LD OnLine’s LD Resources and Parent Advocacy Resource Centers.
Topic
Special Education