Parents have a right to inspect and review their child s education records without unnecessary delay and, in any case, within 45 days of their request. School districts have a detailed written policy which describes this and other parental rights concerning education records. This policy is available to parents on request. If parents have concerns about their child s special education services, the first step is to talk to the child s teacher, principal or case manager or the district s special education administrator. If disputes are not resolved at that level, parents can take further steps, including a request for mediation, a written complaint to the Oregon Department of Education, or a request for a due process hearing.
Mediation is a voluntary process.
Both the parents and the school district must agree to try it before a mediator will be appointed. A mediator is a neutral person who is trained in strategies to help people come to agreement over difficult issues. The cost of mediation will be paid by the district or the Oregon Department of Education. The complaint must describe the problem, including the specific facts. The Oregon Department of Education will investigate the complaint and prepare a written Order, usually within 60 days.