Know Your Rights

Prior Written Notice (PWN)

The school must give you written notice before making any changes — or refusing to make changes — to your child's identification, evaluation, or placement.

Your Consent Is Required

For an Initial IEP, the school cannot evaluate or place your child in special education without your written consent.

Right to Revoke Consent

You can revoke (take back) your consent for special education services at any time in writing. The school must then stop services.

Right to Documents in Your Language

All IEP documents, notices, and meeting communications must be provided in your native language or other mode of communication.

You Are an Equal IEP Team Member

As a parent, you are a required and equal member of the IEP team. The school cannot make final decisions without your meaningful participation.

Right to Bring an Advocate or Expert

You may bring any person with knowledge or special expertise about your child to the IEP meeting.

Right to Record the Meeting

California parents have the right to audio-record IEP meetings with 24-hour advance notice to the school.

Mutually Agreed Meeting Time & Place

IEP meetings must be scheduled at a mutually agreed time and place — the school cannot schedule without your consent.

Right to Access Educational Records

You have the right to inspect and review all of your child's educational records within 5 business days of a written request.

Right to Refuse to Sign the IEP

You can attend an IEP meeting and choose not to sign or consent to all or part of the IEP. You do not have to agree with the team.

Right to Mediation

If you disagree with the school, you have the right to free mediation through the California Department of Education.

Right to Due Process

If you and the school cannot resolve a dispute, you have the right to file for a due process hearing — a formal, legal proceeding.

Right to File a State Complaint

If the school violates IDEA or California special education law, you can file a complaint with the California Department of Education.

"Stay Put" (Pendency) Protection

While a due process complaint is pending, your child has the right to remain in their current educational placement.