Parents and Families

Parents’ rights in Special Education are known as procedural safeguards as outlined in both federal and state guidelines. A Guide to Parent Rights in Special Education for students ages 3 to 21, can help you understand your rights and your child’s rights according to IDEA and the Ohio Operating Standards. It also gives you information and resources to help you understand your child’s Special Education Supports and Services.

Situations may arise where parents or other family members believe a school has violated federal or state law. The Ohio Department of Education and Workforce (ODEW) and the Office for Exceptional Children (OEC) encourages parents and families to first, work with the school to resolve differences. If an agreement cannot be reached the Dispute Resolution Process outlines what steps a parent/guardian/families can take.