Your rights under IDEA
Parents are equal partners on the IEP team. These rights are guaranteed by federal law.
You are an equal member of your child's team.
New to the IEP process? Start hereWhat's happening right now?
Find your situation. We'll walk through your rights in plain, everyday language.
Before a meeting
Getting invited, getting heard, and bringing an interpreter.
Getting evaluated
Asking for testing and what to do if you disagree.
Services & placement
Goals, services, records, and where your child learns.
When you disagree
Your options when you and the school do not agree.
Discipline & safety
Suspension, behavior, restraint, and seclusion.
Planning for the future
Life after high school, starting at 16.
Advocacy scripts
Short phrases for common moments. Personalize before using.
You want something documented
“I'd like that in writing, please.”
You want to understand how a goal is tracked
“I'd like to understand how this goal will be measured.”
You disagree with a placement decision
“I don't agree with this placement. What are my options?”
You want to bring support to a meeting
“I'd like to bring an advocate to the next meeting.”
You need more time to discuss something
“Can we schedule a follow-up to discuss this further?”
You are asked to sign something
“I'd like to take this home to review before I sign.”
You don't understand something that was said
“Can you explain that in simpler terms? I want to make sure I understand.”
You want to record the meeting
“I would like to record this meeting so I can review it later. Is that permitted?”
The school is making a change without notifying you
“I should receive Prior Written Notice before any changes are made to my child's services.”
You haven't received a progress report
“I haven't received a progress report recently. When can I expect the next update?”
IncluBridge gives you educational information about your rights under IDEA — it is not legal advice and not a legal service. We do not review your situation, draw legal conclusions, or tell you what to do. For advice about your specific circumstances, talk to a qualified attorney, advocate, or your state's Parent Training and Information Center.