Special Education Rights and Legal Resources
What are my special education rights?
Parents should have the expectation that they will be:
- Notified about all meetings at least five school days before
- Ability to request a new meeting date, time, and location if needed
- Able to participate in the decision making process
- Have any terms and information thoroughly explained
- Have the security that all information is confidential
- Able to access and review all school records, reports, and evaluations about their child
- Understand that you have the right to request mediation, due process complaint, and an impartial hearing, if needed
Remember you are the BEST advocate when it comes to your child!
New York State Education Department Office of Special Education Resources
- NYS Education Department Office of Special Education page for general information
- NYS Education Department Office of Special Education Assistance for Parents page for information on dispute resolution
- NYS Education Department Office of Special Education Pathways for Graduation that supports students with disabilities
- NYS Education Department Office of Special Education: Educational Partnership
Workshop that outlines the services in CPSE and CSE - NYS Education Department Office of Special Education: Educational Partnership
Workshop that outlines what is a Individualized Education Plan (IEP) and the process for School age students with disabilities - A Parents Guide to Special Education ins New York State (English & Spanish)
- NYS Education Department guide to Dyslexia, Dysgraphia, and Dyscalulia
Local Resources for Special Education Services
- Rochester City School District Special Education Handbook
- Student Success Project: Student Success Project is a parent-powered, Rochester resource, offering free 1-1 coaching, resource connection, parent and community groups, and CSE / school meeting preparation, specific to your child’s needs.
- Starbridge: Partners with families and schools to support them with local special education resources and advocates
- BOCES of Monroe County
- AutismUp
- Arc of Monroe
- Student Success Project Resource Guide
Advocacy Resources for Special Education Services
- Empire Justice Center
- Advocates for Children of New York
- Disability Rights NY: Provides free legal and advocacy services
- Benefits for children with disabilities
Provided by the National Parents Union.
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