Introduction
As a parent of a child who may be eligible for special education services, it's crucial to understand your rights and responsibilities. This guide provides an overview of key elements within the Wyoming Chapter 7 Special Education Rules and the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA). Being informed will empower you to actively participate in your child's educational journey.
Decision Making
Parents have the right to participate in decision-making meetings concerning their child's disability, evaluation, re-evaluations, placement, and Individualized Education Program (IEP). Schools must schedule IEP meetings at a mutually convenient time and place, providing translators or interpreters if necessary. Early communication with teachers and school personnel can prevent potential issues.
Notice
Parents must receive prior written notice (PWN) explaining why a school district proposes or refuses specific actions regarding supports or services. This notice should be provided in a language the parent understands, in a reasonable timeframe, before any action is taken.
Evaluation and Reevaluation
Parents can request an evaluation to determine if their child has a disability eligible under IDEA and needs special education services. The school district has 60 days to conduct this evaluation after receiving parental consent. Reevaluations occur every three years unless agreed otherwise.
Independent Educational Evaluation (IEE)
If you disagree with the school’s evaluation, you can request an IEE at public expense. This involves testing by an independent evaluator not employed by the school district. The school must provide a list of independent evaluators and consider the results of the IEE.
Location and Services
Children with disabilities should be educated in the least restrictive environment (LRE), alongside their non-disabled peers. IDEA mandates a free appropriate public education (FAPE), meaning services are provided at no cost, tailored to your child's unique needs. This ensures access to the general education curriculum and progress towards individual goals.
Discipline
Schools can remove a student to an interim alternative educational setting (IAES) for up to 45 school days if current placement poses a risk of injury. For disciplinary removals exceeding 10 days, a manifestation determination review (MDR) is required to assess if behavior is linked to the child’s disability or a failure to implement the IEP.
Dispute Resolution
Parents are encouraged to express their opinions and share information at team meetings. If disagreements arise, agencies like PIC, Uplift, and the WDE Special Education Programs Division offer dispute resolution options, including complaint investigation, mediation, and due process.
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