About Elizabeth Hamilton Expertise I can answer questions about IEP process and procedures, parental rights as related to special education, the school`s roles and responsibilities to special education students as well as other special education topics.
Question All the recent attention to school vouchers has me concerned. I am the mother of 2 special ed students, currently enrolled in California public schools. What affect, if any, could voucher programs have on my children`s education?
Answer Hi Michelle,
Thanks for writing.
If your children remain in public school, any public school, they would not be affected. All public schools are required to follow IDEA and provide services to children with special needs.
If on the other hand, you choose to send your children to a private school, you may run into some snags. Unlike public schools, private schools can set enrollment criteria. I have been involved in cases where private schools refuse enrollment to any student with any kind of an IEP. Even those students who only receive speech therapy.
If the private school does allow special education students, then your local school district is required to provide services to your children. The services would be the same as the ones they received in public school and for the same amount of time. The only snag may be the "location" of the services. Your child(ren) may have to be transported to the nearest public school. IDEA only states that the school districts must make services "accessible". That term leaves a lot to interpretation.
I hope this information has been helpful. If you have any further questions or other questions, please feel free to write.
