If you have a special needs child it is important for you to become informed about his or her education rights so that you can effectively advocate to obtain appropriate services for your child. An evaluation of your child will be conducted by your school district, with your consent, to determine if your child needs special education services. An evaluation can be as simple as a speech and language test, or as extensive as a psycho-social study, educational evaluation, a neurological exam, a speech and hearing assessment or a complete medical evaluation. This conference must be scheduled at a mutually convenient time. Your participation will be an important part of this conference, and representatives of your choosing may also attend.
Interpreters are to be provided if necessary.
Your child's need for ESY services can be documented through evidence of regression and lack of recoupment, if ESY services are not provide. If you disagree with the proposed IEP, you have the right to an impartial due process hearing. Or, if you are dissatisfied with your child's services or feel you have been denied any of your rights, you have the right to an impartial due process hearing. An impartial due process hearing is a special hearing convened by the state board of education, where an impartial hearing officer hears both sides and renders a decision. Your request for a hearing must be made in writing to your public school district superintendent.