A U.S. District Court for the Middle District of Pennsylvania has denied a parent's claim that their child's school district took too long to determine whether the child needed special education.

In Peter G. v. the Derry Township School District, the federal court issued a major decision related to “child find,” which is the legal terminology for the school's responsibility to evaluate a child once the school has reason to suspect the child may need special help learning. The court concluded that the time period allowed by law for making this determination begins when the school evaluates the child and notifies the parents of the need for special education.

All parents want their children to receive a thorough education, but this can prove especially challenging for parents of children with learning disabilities. Schools have specific legal obligations for providing adequate educational programs for students with disabilities, as well as for identifying those students with special needs. If you are a parent concerned about whether your child requires special education and whether the school is meeting its obligations to identify and meet these needs, the Lento Law Firm and its Student Defense Team can help. Our disability accommodations attorneys represent students and their families nationwide. Call us at 888-535-3686 or complete our confidential contact form to set up a consultation and learn more.

What You Should Do If You Have Concerns About Your Child's Special Education

As a parent, it can be difficult to determine whether your child has learning challenges that require special education. You also likely won't know the school's legal obligations to assess your child's needs and provide special education services. States have very specific regulations related to timelines for evaluating children, specifically once the school has “reason to suspect” a child has a disability. This legal language is very important in guiding the school's responsibilities, as this ruling indicates.

The Student Defense Team at the Lento Law Firm can help you navigate the process to ensure your child receives timely evaluation and any requisite special education from your school district. Schools often have skilled attorney representation for disability cases, and you need a legal team that will ensure your child receives the correct evaluation and education they need and deserve.

Facing a school district's bureaucratic administrative processes can be intimidating and frustrating. Make sure you and your child have the legal support to protect your rights and guide you through the process of ensuring your child receives the necessary special education assessment and services. Contact the Lento Law Firm Student Defense Team at 888-535-3686 or via our online contact form, and we'll work with the school district to make sure your child has every opportunity to thrive and get the best education possible.