BASIC TIPS FOR PARENTS
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Make all requests to the school in writing, not just verbally (save a copy for your file)
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Provide important information about your student to the school in writing, not just verbally; be sure to get an acknowledgement in writing
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Consent to school assessment/evaluation plans (testing) right away in most cases
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In California, parents have a right to audio record an IEP meeting; this is helpful to understand what is said and decided at the IEP meeting; to do this, be sure to notify the school in writing 24 hours or more ahead of time - a note on the meeting notice is a good way to notify the school district of your intent to record; the Sony ICD recorder is one option to record meetings
TOP RESOURCES FOR PARENTS:
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Special Education Rights and Responsibilities, free online book by Disability Rights CA and CASE
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From Emotions to Advocacy, book by Wrightslaw
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17 Tips for Getting Quality Special Education Services for Your Child, by Disability Rights CA
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Parent Training and Information Center classes, resources and materials
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Wrightslaw website
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Information packets and help sheets by Matrix Parents
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Sample letters, by Disability Rights CA and CASE
These books and resources will help you to avoid mistakes and delays helping your child.
If you cannot afford item 2, go to your Parent Training and Information Center to read it.
Take the free classes that parent centers offer.
Read your "Procedural Safeguards" (rights) at:
Shorter summary:
https://www.cde.ca.gov/sp/se/qa/pssummary.asp
Full version:
Parent Training & Information Centers
ATTORNEYS AND OTHER ADVOCATES
List of advocates and attorneys at the OAH website
COPAA Directory of Attorneys/Advocates
COPAA: Guidelines for choosing an advocate
Important 2017 Supreme Court Decision
Endrew F. v Douglas County School District is a 2017 decision by the U.S. Supreme Court about special education.