What can I do if my child is not getting the services/supports they need?

The law provides several ways for parents to resolve disputes, including mediation, a resolution session, due process hearings, or a state complaint. If you have determined that your child’s IEP is not being followed, you can request:

• An informal meeting with your child’s teachers or service providers to start a dialogue and find a solution.
• A formal IEP meeting to discuss the issue with the entire IEP team.
• A mediation, in which a qualified third party will mediate the resolution process.
• Alternative dispute resolution (ADR): This is an informal process that is used to come to an agreement. (It is important to note that you will not lose the right to go to due process by requesting ADR.)
• File a complaint with the district or your Local Education Agency (LEA).
• File a complaint with the California Department of Education. An investigation into your complaint should be completed within sixty days.
• File for due process, a legal proceeding in which the parents and district will discuss the issue with a hearing officer.

For more information see our article How to Make Sure Your IEP Is Being Followed (and What to Do if It Isn’t)