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Frequently Asked Questions

My child has just been found eligible for special education.  What does this mean?

Based on current testing, observations, and other evaluation materials, your child meets the eligibility requirements. Remember, special education is not a place, but services and programming provided to your child so that he/she will be provided a free and appropriate public education (FAPE) in the least restrictive environment (LRE) to meet his/her individual needs.

 

I was told that I need to get a copy of Public Law 105-17. What is this?

Public Law (P.L.) 105-17, the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act Amendments of 1997, is the legislation passed by Congress and signed into law by President Clinton on June 4, 1997. The "105" indicates that this was passed by the 105th Congress. The "17" indicates that this law was the 17th law passed by the 105th Congress signed into law by the President.

 

What rights as a parent do I have as part of the team making decisions for my child?

You, as the parent, have a vital role in providing evaluations and other information, as well as providing input to help determine what additional evaluations might be needed. When an evaluation is conducted, information provided by the parent must be used.

In determining eligibility, the parent is part of the team making that decision. You must be provided a copy of the evaluation, as well as the eligibility report.

Parents are required members of the IEP committee. Additionally, you may invite others who have knowledge or special expertise regarding your child. In developing the IEP, the team must consider the concerns of the parent for enhancing the education of their child.

 

My child is showing difficulty in areas that have not been addressed. My county said he/she isn’t due for any reevaluations until next year. What can I do?

IDEA ’97 states that a reevaluation must be conducted for a child with a disability if conditions warrant a reevaluation, or if the child’s parent or teacher requests it, but at least once every 3 years. You should write a letter to your child’s principal, with a copy to your special education department, requesting the appropriate evaluations and stating your reasons/concerns.

 

Who are the members of the IEP team?

1) The parents, 2) at least one general education teacher (if the child is, or may be participating in general education environment); 3) at least one special education teacher, or where appropriate, at least one special education provider of the child; 4) a representative of the local education agency who is qualified to provide, or supervise the provision of special education, is knowledgeable about the general education curriculum, and is knowledgeable about the availability of resources of the local education agency; 5) an individual who can interpret the instructional implications of evaluation results, who may be another already required member of the team; 6) at the discretion of the parent or the agency, other individuals who have knowledge or special expertise of the child; 7) the child whenever appropriate.

 

Where can I obtain a copy of IDEA 97?

A copy of IDEA 97can be obtained from ???? In addition to IDEA 97 you may also wish to obtain a copy of 504.

 

 

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Last modified: September 15, 2004