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Know the Rights of Children with Special Needs
Definitions
Eligibility
IEP Process
Parent's Role in the IEP Process
Role of the Teacher
Specific Issues for Children with Tourette Syndrome
Resolving Differences
Additional Resources

Know the Rights of Children with Special Needs

Written by Helen Athey

Most children with Tourette Syndrome (TS) are in mainstream classes; some students need additional services in school to meet grade-related goals. While not all children with TS need special education services, the following is what parents need to know about special education.

Navigating through the maze of special education can be an overwhelming experience. Laws change frequently, terminology is confusing, and our legal rights can be elusive. This fact sheet will provide parents and teachers with a basic overview of the special education laws, procedures, and services.

Always remember that you and the school will be making decisions together about your child’s education for as long as your child goes to that school and continues to be eligible for special education services. A good working relationship with members of the school staff is important now and in the future. Therefore, when disagreements arise, try to work them out with the individual education program (IEP) team before requesting mediation or due process or before filing a complaint.