The Benefits Of An Individualized Education Program
The individualized education program (IEP) document ideally is developed as a collaborative and cooperative effort between parents and school personnel. This guiding document describes a student’s abilities and needs, and prescribes the placement and services designed to meet those unique needs. But IEPs are often challenged, ignored or have roadblocks to secure, which is why you need a skilled IEP attorney.
At Augustin Egelsee, LLP, in Anaheim Hills, we are lawyers who focus exclusively on special education law in California. Clients come to us, attorneys Danielle Augustin and Edwin Egelsee, from across the area because we have built a reputation for care and compassion in the face of these highly challenging issues. Our over 50 years of combined experience mean we can provide guidance and insight regarding your child’s special education rights.
We Are Here To Help With The IEP Process
For parents new to the IEP process, it can be confusing and overwhelming. You may not be aware of your child’s right to a free appropriate public education (FAPE) and what supports and services they are entitled to. It can be invaluable to have a knowledgeable attorney by your side, advocating for the well-being of your child.
As special education attorneys, we have reviewed thousands of IEPs, assessments and other educational documents. We use that knowledge to help families overcome the obstacles that children and families encounter. We are determined to advocate for you and your child to ensure that the most appropriate plan is in place.
What You Should Know About IEPs
The IEP is the cornerstone of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) that sets forth the FAPE for all children, including those with disabilities. We can provide guidance with the following processes:
- Understanding the mandatory components of an IEP: They include how your child’s disability affects their involvement and progress in the curriculum, how the disability affects participation in activities, and the present levels of academic achievement and functional performance.
- Conducting IEP meetings: It is important to record all IEP meetings. Much too often, school districts write one-sided meeting notes on the IEP.
- Formulating an IEP: Parents are active participants in the IEP process. If a school district infringes on a parent’s rights to participate in the IEP process, it may result in the denial of a FAPE to the student with a disability.
- Documenting objections to IEPs: If you disagree on a particular issue, make sure your objections are documented in the IEP notes. You have the right to state your position. However, if the school district does not attach your dissent, indicate that you do not agree with the IEP and that you wanted to attach a dissent but the school administration would not allow you to do so. Then, you may file a complaint with the California Department of Education.
- Guidance regarding what special education supports and services are necessary for your child to receive a FAPE: There are a plethora of special education supports and services that your child may be entitled to under the law in order for them to access their educational curriculum and make meaningful progress.
- Guidance regarding discipline/behavior concerns in school: Students who have an IEP are afforded extra protection under the law. If their behavior is a manifestation of their disability, they cannot be punished using general education standards. Instead, they cannot be punished and disciplined for behaviors that are a direct manifestation of their disability.
Because we have a personal connection with special education law, we will always have a passion for it and will serve as the best advocates for parents and children.
Meet With A Skilled Legal Advocate
With experience and compassion, our team at Augustin Egelsee, LLP, in Anaheim Hills, has been a longtime legal advocate for California families that have children with special needs. When you need guidance regarding your child’s IEP, we are ready to help. Please contact us by email or call 714-602-1498.