Understanding and Managing Your Child's Special Education Records
As a parent, it is crucial to understand the significance of your child's special education records and how to manage them effectively. These records serve as crucial legal documents that outline your child's educational needs and the services they are entitled to receive. They are also moved with your child through each stage of schooling, K-12, and can be shared with future educational institutions if your child chooses to attend college.
What You Should Know About Your Child's Special Education Records
Comprehensive Content: Your child's special education records are not just a collection of information but a roadmap for their educational journey. You should be aware of everything documented within these records, which include present levels of performance, assessments, teacher observations, progress towards goals, and the services your child is receiving. It is important to know the process and methods used to determine your child's present levels of functioning.
Present Levels and Determinations: The present levels of performance in your child's IEP (Individualized Education Plan) should be based on data collected through assessments rather than just relying on subjective teacher memories. Progress towards goals should be regularly measured, and you should have access to samples or detailed reports. Understanding who is involved in these measurements and how they are conducted is also important.
Services and Interventions: Be aware of the specific services your child will receive as outlined in their IEP, including the extent of their inclusion in general education classes and the interventions used to address their specific goals. If your child requires special transportation due to medical conditions or disabilities, it is important to document this in their educational records.
Legal and Administrative Aspects
Legal Documents and Compliance: Special education records are legal documents that must be followed to the word. They are also fluid and can be amended as needed to reflect any changes in your child's needs or educational requirements. It is crucial that every staff member your child interacts with has access to or a good working knowledge of these documents, particularly the IEP.
Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA): Medication information falls under the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA), which ensures that your child's educational privacy is protected. If your child's education is affected by their medication, it is recommended to have this information included in their IEP. This can help teachers and staff better understand and address your child's needs.
Free and Appropriate Public Education (FAPE) Laws: You have the right to every document in your child's file, and there are timelines that your district must follow for paperwork to be filed, given to you, and meetings to be scheduled. If your district does not adhere to these timelines, they can be out of compliance, and you have the option to file a formal complaint with your state's education department. If you live in New York, there have been instances where districts have been sued for non-compliance with FAPE laws.
Ensuring Compliance and Support
Documenting Medical Conditions: If your child suffers from anxiety, motor disabilities, or other conditions that may affect their educational experience, it is important to document this in their educational records. This documentation can help secure additional support, such as special transportation arrangements.
Advocating for Your Child: To ensure that your child's needs are met and that their records are up-to-date, it is essential to stay informed and engaged. If you have specific questions or concerns, do not hesitate to reach out to your child's school or an advocate. They can provide guidance and support to help ensure that your child's educational experience is as seamless and supportive as possible.
Resources: For more information on obtaining services and accommodations for your child, refer to our previous show. Additionally, you can explore resources specific to your state or country to better understand the legal and administrative aspects of special education.