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Special Education Guide for Parents

Special Education Services in Pennsylvania: A Guide for Families

At Williamsburg Community School District, we are committed to providing every child the opportunity to learn and thrive. If your child has a disability or you suspect they may need additional support, this guide is designed to help you understand how special education works in Pennsylvania—and how you play a vital role in your child’s educational journey.

📘 Understanding Special Education

Special education ensures a Free Appropriate Public Education (FAPE) for students with disabilities, tailored to their individual needs. This is guaranteed by:

  • Federal law: Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA)

  • State law: Pennsylvania Chapter 14 Regulations

👀 Is My Child Eligible for Special Education?

Your child may qualify if they meet two key criteria:

  • They have a qualifying disability: Autism Spectrum Disorder, Deaf-blindness, Deafness, Emotional Disturbance, Hearing Impairment, Intellectual Disability, Multiple Disabilities, Orthopedic Impairment, Other Health Impairment, Specific Learning Disability, Speech or Language Impairment, Traumatic Brain Injury, and Visual Impairment 

  1. They need specially designed instruction to access the general education curriculum.

If your child doesn’t meet both criteria, they may still qualify for classroom accommodations under Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act.

🧪 The Evaluation Process

If you suspect your child needs extra help:

  • You may request an evaluation in writing at any time.

  • The school may also initiate a request with your written consent.

The school will respond to a written request for evaluation within 10 days with either a Permission to Evaluate (PTE) to obtain consent for the evaluation to begin or a Notice of Recommended Educational Placement (NOREP) form indicating the reason for not agreeing to an evaluation.

Please note:  The student evaluation cannot begin until parent permission (PTE) has been received by the school.

The evaluation will involve:

  • Input from you, the family

  • Observations and assessments by specialists

  • A comprehensive Evaluation Report (ER)

📝 The Individualized Education Program (IEP)

If your child is found eligible, an IEP will be created. This is a legal document that includes:

  • Annual learning goals

  • Special education and related services (e.g., therapy, transportation)

  • Participation in general education classes

  • Progress monitoring

The IEP is developed by a team, which includes:

  • Parents/guardians

  • General and special education teachers

  • School administrators

  • Related service providers

  • The student (age 14+ required for transition planning)

📅 Evaluation and IEP Timelines & Updates

Evaluation and Reevaluation Reports must be completed within 60 days from obtaining written permission from the parent (return of the Permission to Evaluate/Reevaluate form).

  • IEPs must be developed within 30 days of the evaluation/reevaluation report.

  • Implementation must begin within 10 school days of approval.

  • The IEP is reviewed annually or more often if needed.

🎯 Transition Planning

Beginning at age 14, the IEP will include a transition plan for life after high school, covering:

  • Postsecondary education

  • Job training and employment

  • Independent living skills

Agencies like the Office of Vocational Rehabilitation (OVR) may also be involved.

🏫 Placement & Services

We aim to educate all students in the Least Restrictive Environment (LRE)—alongside their peers whenever possible. Support types may include:

  • Learning Support

  • Emotional Support

  • Speech & Language Services

  • Life Skills (Placed outside of District)

  • Autistic Support

  • Physical or Visual Impairment Support

🛡️ Procedural Safeguards

Parents and guardians have rights to:

  • Review educational records

  • Participate in all IEP decisions

  • Receive a Notice of Recommended Educational Placement (NOREP)

  • File for mediation or due process hearings if disagreements arise

⚖️ Dispute Resolution Options

If disagreements arise, you may:

  • Request an IEP team meeting to discuss and resolve any concerns

  • Use free mediation services

  • Request a due process hearing

🚨 Discipline & Special Education

Students with disabilities have protections when it comes to discipline. Schools must:

  • Use positive behavior strategies

  • Avoid inappropriate punishments

  • Conduct a Manifestation Determination if behavior warrants removal from school and behavior is related to the child’s disability

  • Provide continued educational services even during disciplinary removals

🎓 Graduation & Beyond

Students may receive a diploma by:

  • Meeting the same graduation requirements as their peers, or

  • Completing the goals in their IEP

Students can continue receiving services until their 22nd birthday.

Before graduation or aging out, your child will receive a Summary of Academic Achievement and Functional Performance (SAAFP) to help support a smooth transition to adult life.

📚 Resources for Families

  • PaTTAN

  • Pennsylvania Department of Education

❤️ Your Role Matters

As a parent or guardian, your insight and advocacy are essential. Together, we can ensure your child receives the support and education they deserve.

Have questions or need support?
Contact our Special Education Director, Lisa Murgas, at 814-832-2125 or lmurgas@williamsburg.k12.pa.us