Special Education Advocate Santa Cruz
Preparing For A New School Year
First, start by making sure you have a complete copy of your child’s most current, signed IEP. When we say complete copy, we mean an entire copy, complete with page numbers, meeting notes, the works. Second, be sure you have are not missing any key pieces. If there are pages missing, or it is marked “Draft,” then you do not have a complete copy.
Why Does It Matter?
The IEP Team works together to develop goals, supports, services, and placement. An Individualized Education Plan (IEP) document includes all of these and more. When your child’s school district gives you a written copy of it and you sign it, it is a binding contract. If, during the course of the school year, the school does not follow the IEP, you know what they and you agreed to do. To start, having the current document in your hands allows you to first ask the District to implement it in all areas. Then the document allows you to file a complaint with the State of California Board of Education. They investigate (free to you!) and will require the District to fully implement the IEP if they find in your favor. You must send them an IEP copy for this to happen, though.
In The Meantime
What if you check and you do not have a copy? What if your IEP document lack pages numbers, shows “Draft” on the cover, or jumps from page 17 to page 20? Ask in writing that your child’s school send you a complete copy immediately. If I will ask that Districts include page numbers, request that they send a final copy, and generally let them know the problem areas. If you received a final copy and cannot immediately place your hands on it, that is okay also. Asking for the current IEP makes sure that you and the District are working off the same document. The district has 5 days to respond. Let them know if you prefer an electronic or a paper copy.
Special Education Advocate Santa Cruz
Cumulative File?
Are you missing a number of your child’s educational records? You can request a complete copy of your child’s cumulative file, including all emails and internal notes about your child. The district has 5 days to respond.
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As parents, we understand, As experienced and trained advocates, we can help.
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