Parent Participation in Special Education

Abstract

Public Law 94-142 has been one of the most extensive legislations ever enacted to benefit children. Central in this legislation has been the emphasis on the role of the parent in the decision-making process, especially in the area of Individualized Education Program development. The purpose of this study was to examine school division compliance with the state of Virginia and federal regulations as reported through parent surveys and state department of education compliance reports. Areas of difficulty indicated by the parent surveys were related to transmitting and explaining to parents their rights. Parent surveys also revealed a high incidence of non-participation by parents in Individualized Education Program development. Compliance reports indicated that divisions were having difficulties in developing Individualized Education Programs within the 30-day limit and placing children with disabilities with age-appropriate peers. Recommendations for better practice are provided.