The Wrightslaw Way

Can the school district set a predetermined dollar amount as a cap on the cost of an IEE? No. There is no provision in the law that allows districts to limit the cost or that requires parents to pay a portion of the cost of an Independent Educational Evaluation (IEE). The regulation about the parental right […]

I understand a multifactored evaluation provides valuable information about my child’s unique needs and the educational services he needs. How do I request this evaluation? I have three children who are learning disabled. Each child needed a multifactored evaluation. So, three times we requested these evaluations. Here is what we did. 1. If it is […]

Last week we told parents to find an expert to evaluate your child and make strong recommendations about your child’s communication needs. We also  said… If you, a parent says, “My child needs an iPad”, that’s the last device the school will consider. Even if you were an AT expert, it would be hard because […]

My child attends private school and demonstrates focus problems, tics, and some hyperactivity. He was recently diagnosed with ADHD by a physician who recommended a psychoeducational evaluation. The public school district conducted the evaluation.  The evaluation dismissed physicians findings of ADHD. Question: Our doctor reviewed the test results. He told us that the law said […]

I know that you get a lot of heat, but I can testify that it is very hard to see the light at the end of the tunnel when you are walking backwards. I really needed you to turn me around and show me the way. I’ve learned so much through your website and this […]

I read your article “Can a Child With an IEP Fail?“  My son has LD and is in high school. He has an IEP, but the school has not evaluated him since 4th grade. He failed algebra and English, even though he had an instructional aide. I’ve questioned the school about the appropriateness and effectiveness of […]

I am a counselor with the local mental health agency. I’m working with a 4 year old boy who has been “kicked out of” two preschool programs for behavior problems. He is diagnosed with ADHD. He has not been tested by the local school district. They refuse to offer him services because of his behavior. […]

My son is in the 10th grade. He has a behavior disorder and he can’t control himself at times. The school does not understand when he gets agitated and angry. They just suspend him and deprive him of his education. You say your son has a behavior disorder. Many kids with learning disabilities develop behavior […]

The Special Education Law Blog by Charlie Fox, a Chicago Illinois attorney who is also the parent of child with a disability, is a remarkable and wonderful resource about special education law, news, and advocacy – and much more. Charlie’s commentary about special ed news around the country is timely, sincere and on target. Remember […]

Parent #1: My son wants to be “left behind”. I feel that another year in the smaller, familiar middle school would be less intimidating and give him some time to mature. Because of the b’day he really wouldn’t be older than the rest anyway. Parent #2: I don’t want my child to be retained. Everything […]