I was just wondering how often parent’s requests for sevices are granted. All the parents I’ve talked to have had to fight for every little thing. Also, we have found that asking for a service has often resulted in the threat of the removal of a service. Is this pattern and practice across the country or only in my county? Does it make a difference if the service will cost little or nothing to the school or is it just policy to say no without thinking? I’m interested in your experiences and opinions.
Re: requesting services
A lot of districts I’ve known, as student, teacher, and parent, do say no automatically mto anything. Many administrators have taken as their motto “Don’t Rock the Boat”. Also, their own career success depends on two things, keeping everybody quiet and apparently satisfied so the elected officials stay in office, and saving money. Any change is bad as far as long-term administrators are concerned.
Anytime a school district denies a request for services ask for Prior Written Notice ( a strange name). When asked to put denials in writing many School Districts back down.
“The second notice is written after an IEP meeting and describes all special services for the child. This document is called Prior Notice. This is not a new document, but many people, including professionals seem to not be aware of its role in the IEP process. It is found at Part 300, Subpart C—Services at 300.503. The document should include the information described below:
You must receive Prior Notice before any change in placement takes effect. It must include all services and placements. It should include a list of all suggestions put on the table for consideration, whether each idea was accepted or rejected, and the rationale for acceptation or rejection. This requirement encourages effective communication and offers an excellent way to document the disposition of each item.
If your district is not used to keeping such a Prior Notice format, you might ask them if they will do so. If they choose not to do so, you might want to keep such a record yourself during the meeting. At the end of the meeting, you could request that it be attached to the IEP as part of your official input into the minutes of the meeting. It then becomes part of the IEP. This written record clarifies each item discussed and its eventual disposition. While it is informal documentation, it serves as a powerful tool in seeing that all proposals are considered and their disposition is noted in writing.”
Helen