Dispute Resolution & Your Child’s Legal Rights

What are my options if I disagree with the school’s decision about special education or a 504 plan, or if the school is not following my child’s IEP or 504 plans?

• Start with your child’s school first. Talk with the special education coordinator or principal. If you are unable to resolve your concerns, or need further support or information use the resources listed below.

• Resolution options for special education disputes are described in Dispute Resolution and Disagreements and Complaints about Special Education from the Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction’s (OSPI).

• You can also contact OSPI’s Special Education Ombudsman.

To address concerns and complaints about Section 504 or disability discrimination:

• Contact your School District 504 Coordinator.

• Review How to Make a Complaint of Discrimination with your School District (including Section 504 Complaints) from the Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction’s (OSPI).

• How to File a Discrimination Complaint with the Office for Civil Rights (including Section 504 Complaints) from the U.S. Department of Education.

I have questions or concerns about my child’s legal rights. What are my options?

More information about your child’s rights is available in the following resources:

• Washington State OSPI’s civil rights guidelines, Prohibiting Discrimination in Washington Public Schools (see pages 18-24 for information about Section 504, ADA, service animals, and access to online programs).

• Questions and Answers on the ADA Amendments Act of 2008 for Students with Disabilities from the U.S. Department of Education.

Return to the Special Education, IEP And The 504 Plan page.