Overview of Procedural Safeguards

May 8, 2024 | Blog, Elementary Special Ed, Family Engagement, Rights/Procedures

When you attend an IEP Meeting, you should be offered a copy of the Procedural Safeguards. Sometimes it can feel overwhelming to understand all of the parental rights that are described in that packet. The resource below breaks Procedural Safeguards down into six main categories. As always, please reach out to us if you have any questions. You can email specialeducation@thearctn.org or call 800-835-7077. 

Title: Overview of Procedural Safeguards Presented by: The Arc Tennessee TN-TAN (Tennessee Technical Assistance Network) Family Engagement in Special Education Description: This infographic outlines the key procedural safeguards that protect the rights of parents and students in special education under federal and state law. Each safeguard is numbered and accompanied by an icon and brief description: Consent Parents have the right to give or refuse consent for initial evaluations, reevaluations, and special education services. Consent can be revoked at any time. Notice Parents must receive written notice before the school proposes or refuses to change a child’s eligibility status, disability category, or services. Evaluation Parents have the right to a full evaluation of their child’s educational needs by trained personnel. Least Restrictive Environment (LRE) Children have the right to be educated with their peers without disabilities to the maximum extent appropriate. Student Records Schools generally cannot share a student’s educational records without parental consent. Parents have the right to review and inspect these records. Mediation Parents can request free mediation with the school district to resolve disputes. Due Process Parents have the right to a due process hearing before an administrative law judge. Administrative Complaint Parents can file a complaint with the Tennessee Department of Education if they believe the school violated special education law. Contact Information (at the bottom): Email: specialeducation@thearctn.org Phone: 833-596-1553 Website: familyengagementtn.com Visual Elements: Each point includes a themed icon (e.g., clipboard, letter, gavel, chalkboard) that visually represents the safeguard described. The background is light yellow with orange and blue highlights.

Overview of Procedural Safeguards (Printable)