This quick guide explains the rights and responsibilities parents have within the special education process. It helps families better understand important protections provided under special education law, including participation in meetings, access to educational records, consent, evaluations, dispute resolution options, and communication with schools.
The resource is designed to help parents feel more informed, confident, and prepared when working with educators and support teams to make decisions about their child’s education. By clearly outlining both family rights and shared responsibilities, the guide encourages strong partnerships between families and schools to support student success.
This document was created in collaborative with TNSTEP and the TN Department of Education.
