Special Education in Connecticut

Connecticut’s special education system is largely based on federal special education law, the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act of 2004, as well as Connecticut-specific laws and regulations. Generally, the goal for families with children who have qualifying special needs should be to effectively work with their child’s school to develop a plan to give their child an appropriate education based on their circumstances. The Director of Special Education in the child’s school district is a resource to understand their child’s rights and procedures to meet their child’s unique needs. The Connecticut State Department of Education also has information that can shepherd parents through a convoluted system meant to protect children with disabilities and safeguard their rights to services to ensure that they receive a meaningful education.

Unfortunately, the system does not always function as intended. Disagreements between parents and educators arise even when both parties are advocating for what they believe to be the child’s best interests. Disputes may range from the school’s failure to appropriately test a child for suspected disabilities to appropriate outplacement to properly implement a child’s individualized education plans. It is important that educators meet with parents to determine the best course of action – for example –  to determine whether the child needs a tutor, after school programs, outplacement, or other support. The attorneys in Brown Paindiris & Scott’s Special Education Department are experienced in spotting issues regarding the protection and welfare of children with special needs. If you have a child with special needs, and you feel their rights are being violated, contact Edward Bryan in our Hartford office today.

Edward Bryan

860-522-3343