Understanding Your Procedural Safeguards
Parents and guardians play an important role in every step of the special education process. To help families understand their rights, the district provides a document called the Procedural Safeguards Notice.
This guide explains the rights of parents and guardians whose child is receiving special education services or is being evaluated for eligibility. It applies to children and students ages 3 through 21 and includes information about:
- Your rights throughout the evaluation and IEP process
- Common special education terms and definitions
- Dispute resolution options and due process
- Filing a state complaint
- Finding advocacy and support resources
Federal and state regulations require the district to offer a copy of the Procedural Safeguards Notice at specific points in the special education process, such as during IEP meetings. While families are not required to take a new paper copy each time it is offered, the district must ensure it is available.
Families may request a printed or digital copy at any time. The Procedural Safeguards Notice is also available through the Pennsylvania Training and Technical Assistance Network (PaTTAN).
Access the Procedural Safeguards Notice
The complete Pennsylvania Procedural Safeguards Notice is available online through the Pennsylvania Training and Technical Assistance Network (PaTTAN).