Embedded Files
"Parent" per Rule 51:
003.44: "Parent means a biological or adoptive parent of a child; a foster parent, unless State law, regulations, or contractual obligations with a State or local entity prohibit a foster parent from acting as a parent; a guardian generally authorized to act as the child’s parent, or authorized to make educational decisions for the child (but not the State if the child is a ward of the State); an individual acting in the place of a biological or adoptive parent (including a grandparent, stepparent, or other relative) with whom the child lives, or an individual who is legally responsible for the child’s welfare; or a surrogate parent who has been appointed in accordance with 92 NAC 51-009.10B. The biological or adoptive parent, when attempting to act as the parent and when more than one party is qualified to act as a parent, must be presumed to be the parent unless the biological or adoptive parent does not have legal authority to make educational decisions for the child. However, if a judicial decree or order identifies a specific person or persons to act as the “parent” of a child or to make educational decisions on behalf of a child, then such person or persons shall be determined to be the “parent” for purposes of this subsection.
Q & A
Q & A
1. A foster student just enrolled in our district. We are unsure as to who should be signing as the guardian on IEP paperwork as the foster parents were the only ones in attendance. What do we do?
The foster parent should sign the IEP. Other signatures aren't necessary as they were the only ones in attendance. It would be best practice to request a court document that indicates who has parental rights and is authorized to sign different documents (e.g. Who can provide consent? Who can sign as "parent"). See the Rule 51 definition for "parent".
2. What is PTI Nebraska?
PTI Nebraska is a statewide resource for families of children with disabilities or special healthcare needs. The goal is to empower parents to have the capacity to improve education and healthcare outcomes for their children. PTI is a non-profit organization funded by both the Federal and State Departments of Education. There is at least one parent center in each state and Nebraska’s is located in Omaha. PTI serves the entire state and we serve families of children with special needs ages birth through twenty six.
The mission and vision of PTI is to provide training information and support to parents in Nebraska who have a child with a disability or special health care needs. Resources are made available to parents and other family members, school personnel, and all others who have an interest in children; specifically, children who have disabilities.
The intent is to support parents to develop the skills necessary to effectively participate in planning and decision making relating to early childhood, educational, transitional and health care services. As a result, children will be prepared to lead productive, independent adult lives, to the maximum extent possible.
INFORMED PARENTS = IMPROVED OUTCOMES FOR CHILDREN WITH DISABILITIES
Parents should contact PTI if they...
would like information about their child’s disability or special health care needs – we will help them understand their child’s disability by providing one on one support, through print material, webinars and etc.
have a question about their child’s special education program or related services – we will help them understand IDEA, Nebraska Rules, and their roles and rights by providing one on one support, through print material, webinars and etc.
would like to schedule a workshop in their community – we discuss the community needs and determine, with them, the topic to be presented and make a commitment to present on that topic
would like to talk to another parent – we take the time that is necessary to listen, to share thoughts and experience, to help them with decisions, to connect them with resources, and to develop a relationship; as well as link them to parents who are not PTI employees
would like to learn more about PTI Nebraska, please access our website at www.pti-nebraska.org or contact any of the staff. Their contact information is listed on the website
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