Education

Every child deserves an education.

If your child is struggling with academic or behavior problems in school, he or she may benefit from special education services. In many cases the school must provide free services to meet those needs.

Education Matters We Handle

Expulsions
Special Education Needs
Access to Education
Behavior Problems

FAQs

I believe my child needs Special Education Services, such as an IEP, what should I do? Close

If you believe your child needs special services in school because of a physical, learning or emotional disability, you can request the school evaluate your child. Schools are obligated by law to identify and provide services to students who have disabilities that affect their learning in school. Be sure to:

Put the request in writing. Put the date on the letter and keep a copy for your records.
Keep all letters from the school.
Attach any letters or evaluations to the request from your child’s doctor regarding a medical diagnosis.
Keep copies of all important documents such as disciplinary notices and report cards.
Write down a summary of all telephone calls you make, voice mail messages you leave and meetings you have.
Do not sign anything you do not understand or do not agree with.

If your school will not test your child, talk to a lawyer about it.

Next Steps

Visit a brief advice clinic or contact Legal Aid.

Other Resources

School Discipline: Know your Rights – School Expulsions
Pro se Forms
Glossary of Education Terms

You may be able to find an attorney who can help you by contacting:

Cleveland Metropolitan Bar Association
Lawyer Referral Service
(216) 696-3532

My child has an IEP, but she is still having problems in school. Do I need to have the IEP changed? Close

If your child is still having problems in school, the school may not be following the IEP or your child’s needs may have changed.

You can request an IEP meeting at any time.
Your child must be re-evaluated every three years.
IEP’s must be reviewed by the IEP team once every year.

*If your child is on an IEP he or she has extra rights and protections for suspensions and expulsions.

**If your son or daughter is on an IEP and has been removed from school for more than 10 days total in any school year, the school must hold a Manifestation Determination Review hearing before that child can be removed from school. If a child on an IEP is removed from school then he or she is still entitled to receive an education, usually in the form of home instruction.