In July of 2009 new rules were put into place in the IDEA Act, and from how I read these changes, they favor the child (and us parents).

One of the changes is in the Procedural Safeguards: Due Process Procedures for Parents and Students (Subpart E). All parents of children with Individualized Education Plans (IEP) should read this. If your child’s IEP has recently been done or it soon will be, make it a priority to understand these new changes. As parents with a lot on our plates with special needs children, we rely on our teachers and LEA representatives to help us; however, the truth of the matter is, we must understand our child’s rights. Your child’s IEP may be affected, or you may have the information you need in order to have a Due Process hearing because of these new changes.

There is also a sheet that outlines the changes and makes them a bit easier to discern what may be different. I highly recommend that you ask for that outline, as it will also be a good reminder and useful when looking up needed information in the procedural safeguards. As with any official document, you need to read them carefully.

The information here is from the understanding of a mother with two special needs children. You must read and decipher for yourself the information contained in the new changes in order to determine how they may affect your child; and consult an advocate or lawyer if necessary.

For a revised copy of the Procedural Safeguards, contact your Special Education provider. You can also find more information on the IDEA government website .

photo by Judith P. Abrahamsen