Monday July 24, 2023 - Education Lawyers Q&A: 10 Common Questions Answered

Welcome to Mondays with Education Law! Every week, we answer 10 of your questions about education law. We've gathered questions from our readers, our social media followers, and our own team of education lawyers. We'll answer questions about everything from the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) to homeschooling to bullying.

We publish our answers on Mondays, so you can start your week off with a better understanding of your educational rights and options. We hope you'll join us for Mondays with Education Law!

Monday Morning Q&A with the Education Law Nerds - This weeks top 10

What is the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA)?

The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) is a federal law that guarantees all children with disabilities a free and appropriate public education (FAPE). The IDEA requires schools to provide special education and related services to children with disabilities that meet certain eligibility criteria.

What is an IEP?

An IEP, or Individualized Education Program, is a written plan that outlines the special education and related services that a child with a disability will receive. The IEP is developed by a team of professionals, including the child's parents, teachers, and other relevant individuals.

What are the procedural safeguards under IDEA?

The procedural safeguards under IDEA are a set of rights that protect the interests of children with disabilities and their parents. These rights include the right to be informed of their child's educational rights, the right to participate in the development of their child's IEP, and the right to appeal if they are not satisfied with their child's education.

What is homeschooling?

Homeschooling is the practice of educating children at home rather than in a traditional school setting. Homeschooling is legal in all 50 states, but the specific requirements vary from state to state.

What is bullying?

Bullying is any unwanted, aggressive behavior that involves a real or perceived power imbalance. Bullying can take many forms, including physical, verbal, social, and cyber bullying.

What should I do if my child is being bullied?

If you believe that your child is being bullied, the first thing you should do is talk to your child about what is happening. You should also talk to the school administration and let them know that your child is being bullied. The school should take steps to investigate the bullying and take appropriate action.

How do I file a school lawsuit?

If you are not satisfied with the way that your child's school has handled a bullying complaint, you may be able to file a school lawsuit. However, it is important to note that school lawsuits can be complex and expensive. You should consult with an attorney before filing a school lawsuit.

What is the importance of an IEP?

An IEP is an essential document for children with disabilities. The IEP outlines the special education and related services that a child will receive, and it is used to track the child's progress over time. An IEP is also a legal document, and it can be used to protect the child's educational rights.

How do I choose the right school for my child?

There are many factors to consider when choosing a school for your child. Some of the most important factors include the school's academic reputation, its location, its size, and its curriculum. You should also consider the school's policies on bullying, discipline, and special education.

What is the future of education law?

The future of education law is uncertain, but there are some trends that are likely to continue. These trends include the increasing emphasis on accountability, the growing importance of technology in education, and the increasing diversity of the student population.