How Do You Utilize Special Education Rights?
As a student in the United States, your child has rights concerning education. Know and use your rights as a parent to help your child succeed in a special education program. Request a formal meeting with your child’s teacher and a special education specialist if a school informs you that your child will be tested for a learning disability. Meetings must be conducted in your primary mode of communication, such as sign language or a foreign language, if appropriate. Expect a full explanation of your child’s current academic standing and of what specific problems exist. Ask what different instructional approaches the classroom teacher has tried in order to teach your child. A teacher is required to try alternative techniques before referring a student. Deny the school permission to evaluate your child if you feel that school officials are incorrect in their observations of your child. If you agree to an evaluation, request written documentation and access to the tests the school will use
