Q: Why might a school terminate a surrogate parent's appointment?

A: The surrogate should be informed about the reason for termination and has the right to be heard at a school board meeting to appeal the termination. A complaint can also be filed with the Division of Compliance and Assistance if the termination appears to be inappropriate. There are several reasons why the school might discontinue an assignment such as:

• The child changes school districts because of a change in living arrangements or residential needs.

• An "unavailable parent" becomes available again.

• The child reaches the age of 18 and no longer needs a surrogate parent.

• The child's status as a special education student changes (the surrogate would be involved in decision-making regarding these changes).

• The school thinks the surrogate parent has not fulfilled the responsibilities of a surrogate parent.