Part of the embarking on the Special Education journey is learning your rights as a parent. Some of the most frequently asked questions at California Special Education Advocacy Group revolve around the number of days districts have to respond or develop certain areas of an IEP. We have listed below the top 8 timelines you should know as a parent in California. Remember, put all your requests in writing and include the dates

1.Propose an Assessment Plan
The district has 15 days from the initial date you requested an evaluation to create an assessment plan for you to review, sign, and return. The 15 day timeline also applies to any re-assessing as well. This of course is not counting any school holidays or end of the school year.

2.Initial IEP

They have 60 days after they receive your signed assessment plan to hold an IEP meeting for initial review.

3.To hold an IEP when Parents ask

Once you request a meeting, the district has 30 days from that date to hold an IEP meeting. Taking longer than that interferes with your child’s education plan. However, if you request an IEP meeting to discuss additional assessment the timeline is 15 days from your request. Remember, the meeting needs to be held on a mutually agreeable date, your schedule is priority.

4.To Receive Requested Records
As a parent, in you have the right to request your child’s educational records at any time. From the date you ask, the district has 5 days to turn the records to you. Some district’s will charge per page to copy. Consider requesting an electronic copy to avoid this cost.

5.Annual IEP
The annual IEP must be held no more than 12 months from the date of the last annual IEP. Parents can request an IEP meeting to be held at anytime to address their concerns.

6.Triennial IEP
Your child’s triennial IEP must be held every 3 years. This date goes based off of your last triennial evaluation.

7.Implementation of the IEP
The IEP must be implemented without delay from the date you sign it. Remember, you do not have to sign at the IEP meeting. Take it home, review it, do not feel pressure to sign. California Special Education Advocacy Group recommends you sign “partial” agreement in case there are issues of failure of FAPE (free appropriate public education) down the road.

8.Receipt of Progress Report on Goals
They must be given to you as often as the regular education receives progress reports.

As a parent you are able to request meetings at any time. If you do not feel your child is making progress or you have any additional concerns do not hesitate to request a meeting to discuss them. California Special Education Advocacy Groups is here to help. If you have any questions, concerns, or would like to join our family, give us a call!