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Learn what to do if your child is not receiving appropriate special education services. 

Start at your child’s school. Talk to your child’s teacher, school psychologist, or social worker.  If you are not satisfied, speak with the principal.  You can also try the Family Support Coordinator in the district superintendent’s office.

Special education compliance complaints

If you believe the DOE is violating any law, regulation, or policy related to your child’s education, you may wish to file a Special education compliance complaint. Common issues addressed include failures to accept or delays in processing your request to have your child evaluated for special education services; failure to place your child in the instructional program recommended on their IEP; improper staffing of your child’s class, i.e., there is no special education teacher in an ICT class, your child’s teacher is not appropriately certified to teach the class, failure to receive paraprofessional or related services recommended on your child’s IEP and bussing issues. See these resources for help:

• Certification requirements 

• Too many students in your child’s class

State complaints

Claims that the Department of Education has violated a federal or state law or regulation regarding the education of students with disabilities can also be f using the New York State complaint procedures .

Due process complaints

More difficult issues, such as the DOE’s failure to provide an educational program that meets your child’s needs and is “appropriately ambitious in light of [your child’s] circumstances,” can be addressed through such as mediation and impartial hearings. Advocates for Children publishes an excellent parent-friendly .