Written notice must include a full explanation of procedural safeguards, a description of the proposed or refused action, an explanation for the school's decision, other options considered, evaluations, tests or other reports relied upon, any other factors, and sources for parents to contact to obtain assistance in understanding their rights. Procedural safeguards must be given to parents upon initial referral for evaluation, notification of IEP meetings, reevaluation, and when a parent files for a due process hearing. The IDEA contains detailed procedures for discipline of children with disabilities. Generally, if a child's disability is the cause of the behavior, a school cannot suspend or expel a child for over 10 school days. If a child's behavior is not caused by the child's disability, a child with a disability may be suspended or expelled but the school must continue to provide needed services in an alternative setting.
Separate rules apply to situations involving weapons and drugs.
Parent Challenges to School Decisions Parents may challenge decisions made by schools through two processes. First, when a parent believes the school is violating the procedures of the IDEA or is not complying with the IEP, parents may rile a written complaint with the state department, which will investigate the complaint and require the school to submit a corrective action plan if found out of compliance. Second, a parent may file for a due process hearing concerning any complaint or concerning any school proposal or refusal to initiate or change the identification, evaluation, placement, or the provision of a free appropriate public education, as well as under the discipline procedures of the Act. Informal mediation is available to parties to attempt to resolve disputes prior to hearing. Parties have the right to appeal hearing decisions into state or federal court.