Resolving Differences

Parents and school staff usually agree about issues regarding evaluation, eligibility, services, and placement of students with disabilities. However, there are times when disagreement occurs. It is helpful to address concerns with school personnel as soon as they arise so steps can be taken to resolve the concern and support the working relationship among parents, staff, and students.

If parents/guardians believe that their child’s educational rights have been violated, they should try to resolve the issues with the school and local school district through the following steps:

• Communicate directly with the student's classroom teacher or special education case manager/teacher.

• Communicate with the building administration.

• Communicate with the special education administrator.

• Request an IEP meeting to discuss the issues with the IEP team.

If parents can not resolve their concerns with building-level staff or administration, parents may contact District Administration.

• District 202 Student Services Directors

• Assistant Superintendent for Student Services.

If conflicts cannot be resolved at the district level, families can request to work with the Illinois State Board of Education to effectively resolve the dispute. Options include:

• State Sponsored IEP Facilitation

• State-Sponsored Mediation

• ISBE Complaint Investigation

• Due Process