What is the purpose of Due Process in special education?

The purpose of Due Process in special education centers around protecting the rights of students with disabilities and their families. It ensures that parents have the opportunity to access and examine their child's educational records, and it allows them to request independent evaluations if they feel that the school's assessment may not fully represent their child's needs. This aspect is foundational because it empowers parents and families to actively participate in the decision-making process regarding their child's education, promoting collaboration between families and schools.

Due Process safeguards ensure that parents can contest decisions they believe are unsuitable, seek clarification, and advocate for appropriate services based on their child's individual circumstances. This is crucial for ensuring that students receive a Free Appropriate Public Education (FAPE), which is their legal right under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA).