What is a PWN?

Prior written notice (PWN) is a document from the school district that is sent to parents notifying them of a change the school wants to make, or refuses to make, in the student’s IEP. PWN is a legal right afforded to parents that guarantees schools will provide a written explanation before making any changes involving a student with a disability.

Contrary to popular belief, this document does not have to be provided prior to an IEP meeting. PWN is not a meeting notice; it is a document notifying parents of a change before the change is implemented. The PWN makes sure parents have time to respond to any proposed changes, and it requires that schools explain why they may have denied a parent request.

To learn all about PWN and parents' rights, see our article What Is Prior Written Notice?