School districts must give parents or guardians of a child with a disability under IDEA a copy of the procedural safeguards (parent rights)when the child is referred for evaluation or re-evaluation, with the written invitation to Individual Education Program team meetings, when a formal complaint, hearing, or mediation is filed by the parent, and when the parent requests a copy of the rights. If districts have electronic communication available, parents may request a copy of their rights through email.
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Parents and guardians have the right to prior notice:
- When a referral for assessment is made;
- When invited to an Individual Education Program (IEP)team meeting. Meetings must be arranged at a mutually convenient time and place. The notice must include the purpose of the meeting and who will be in attendance. The number of days in advance that the notice must be provided may differ from district to district. Check with your director of special education to find out your district's requirements;
- When evaluation is planned or when the district is planning a re-evaluation;
- Before writing an IEP or revising it;
- Before making changes in related services such as occupational, physical, and speech therapy;
- Before making a change of educational placement;
- Before substantial disciplinary decisions are made;
- When a formal complaint is filed, a hearing is requested, or when mediation is planned.
