5 things you need to know about your parental rights.

Understanding your parental rights is crucial for advocating for your child's education and ensuring they receive the support they need to succeed. Here are five essential things to know about your parental rights:

1. **Right to Participate in Educational Decisions:** As a parent, you have the right to participate in all decisions related to your child's education. This includes being involved in meetings to develop or review Individualized Education Programs (IEPs), 504 plans, and other educational plans. Your input is valuable in determining your child's goals, services, and accommodations.

2. **Right to Access Information:** You have the right to access your child's educational records, including evaluations, progress reports, and documentation related to their educational plans. Schools are required to provide you with this information upon request and ensure that it is kept confidential.

3. **Right to Consent:** Before any evaluations, services, or accommodations are provided to your child, the school typically needs your consent. This means that you have the authority to agree or disagree with proposed plans or interventions. Your consent is essential for ensuring that your child receives appropriate support tailored to their needs.

4. **Right to Appeal and Dispute Resolution:** If you disagree with any aspect of your child's education plan or services, you have the right to appeal or seek dispute resolution. This may involve requesting mediation, filing a complaint with the school district, or pursuing a due process hearing. These mechanisms are in place to ensure that your concerns are addressed and that your child receives an appropriate education.

5. **Right to Equal Access and Non-Discrimination:** Your child has the right to equal access to education and to be free from discrimination based on their disability, race, ethnicity, gender, or any other protected characteristic. Schools are required to provide accommodations and support to ensure that all students can participate in educational programs and activities on an equal basis.

Understanding and exercising your parental rights empowers you to advocate effectively for your child and ensure that they receive the education and support they need to thrive academically and socially. If you ever have questions or concerns about your rights or your child's education, don't hesitate to reach out to the school or seek assistance from advocacy organizations or legal resources.