3 Take a friend, neighbor or advocate with you to the PHC, if possible. If no one seems to have the answers, perhaps your child needs to be re-evaluated. For example, an instructional evaluation may identify better strategies to help teach your child, or a behavior assessment might show what changes are needed to the behavior program. Remember, all needed evaluations must be done without cost to you. If evaluations will be needed, work out a prompt schedule with school officials, and a date to meet again to review the evaluation results and make necessary changes to the program.
Mediation is voluntary on the part of parents, but can often be quite helpful.
A trained, impartial person is assigned by the state to meet with both sides to help find a resolution. See ELC-PA's Fact Sheet on Due Process Procedures in Pennsylvania for more information on the hearing and appeal system. They have a similar obligation to investigate and issue written reports within 60 days. The state has 60 days to investigate and issue a written report that states whether the law has been violated, and what is needed to correct the problem. You may also wish to contact one of the parent support groups listed at the back of this booklet, or another group in your area.