Resolving differences with the school

Most participants want IEP meetings to result in mutual agreement about an appropriate educational program for the child. However, this doesn't always happen. The surrogate parent can:

• Discuss concerns with the child's IEP case manager

• Request another IEP meeting to discuss specific issues and concerns

• Explore other school programs or placements if necessary

• Consider requesting a conciliation conference, mediation, or an alternate form of dispute resolution

• If the above methods don't work and the situation is appropriate, consider initiating due process procedures

• It if appears that the school is not complying with special education laws, consider filing a complaint with the state's Division of Compliance and Assistance.