What rights do parents have regarding IEP decisions?

• A. They have no formal rights
• B. They have legal rights and expertise about their child; their input and consent are required before services can begin or change
• C. They can override professionals' recommendations at any time
• D. They must be informed but cannot participate in decisions

Answer: (B)

Parents are essential partners in the IEP process because they bring crucial, first-hand knowledge about their child’s strengths, needs, routines, and family context that professionals may not fully see. Because of this expertise, the IEP team must include them, actively consider their input, and work with them to set goals, determine services, and decide placement. Importantly, services cannot begin or be changed without the parent’s informed consent, so any initial plan or modification to services, supports, or placement requires the parent’s agreement before implementation. In addition to this, parents have broader rights—such as access to records, notice of meetings, and opportunities to participate—and they can pursue dispute resolution (including mediation or a due process hearing) or request an independent educational evaluation if they disagree with the school’s assessment.