2025 Parent Survey is now open!
WELCOME!
We are so glad you're here! This website is designed with families in mind, as a user-friendly informational resource-hub for families of students with disabilities. Our goal is to partner with you as you advocate for your student.
Special Education
Special Education
What is a Special Education Surrogate Parent?
An Educational Surrogate Parent is an individual who has been appointed to represent the educational interests of a child with disabilities when:
No parent (as defined under 34 CFR 300.30) can be identified;
The parent cannot be located;
The child is a youth in state custody;
Parental Rights have been terminated;
The child is an unaccompanied homeless youth.
If you are interested in being an educational surrogate, please email me or call (502) 485-3346.
Special Needs Transportation Explanation: Special Needs Transportation (SNT) is a related service offered to students with disabilities who require this service to benefit from special education. The Admissions and Release Committee (ARC) determines the need for SNT. The district assigns the school location based on the services and placement required on the IEP, and SNT offers door-to-door services to the designated school.
Parents have rights that are protected under federal law and state regulations. Parents are given a written copy and an oral explanation of these rights as part of the Admissions and Release Committee (ARC) process. Parents may receive additional copies or further explanations by contacting the Implementation Coach or School Counselor at their student's school.
Katie Cooper, Ph.D., is the Exceptional Child Education (ECE) Community Relations supervisor for Jefferson County Public Schools. She works with families to answer questions regarding the special education process and available resources in the community. Dr. Cooper also collaborates with JCPS and community partners to plan parent workshops.
Contact Information: (502) 485-3346