As we start a new school year in Los Angeles, many parents in LAUSD and other Los Angeles School Districts are not aware (and are not told) that their children have certain legal rights and protections at their school. Federal, state, and local laws protect your child's right to a proper education. For example:
1. Right to a Special Education Assessment - Under federal law, if you reques that your child be assessed for special education, the school has only 15 days to provide written notification that they will/ will not proceed with an assessment. Thereafter, they have 60 days to complete this initial assessment. If a parent does not agree with the school's decision they have a right to appeal.
The local public school must provide special education services to your child regardless of whether they attend that school or a private school in the area.
2. Right to a textbook for every academic class - State law (Chanda Smith and Williams decree) mandate that every student has a right to a textbook and to have a clean, safe, school environment.
3. Equal Rights/ Access - Federal law guarantees your child equal access to all school classes and services, regardless of gender, race, or national origin.
For a more detailed discussion of these rights, or any other questions you may have about your child's educational rights, contact the Law Offices of Frazee/ Laron for an experienced Education Law Attorney.
Philip Koch
Pasadena and San Fernando Valley Education Attorney
