If your child has an IEP or may need one, federal and Connecticut law give you real rights in the process. You are an equal member of your child’s Planning and Placement Team (PPT), not a bystander. This guide covers the basics every Connecticut parent should know.

Looking for New York? See our New York guide.

Your child’s core rights under IDEA

The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) is the federal law behind special education. It guarantees:

  • A free appropriate public education (FAPE): special education and related services at no cost to you, designed to meet your child’s unique needs.
  • Education in the least restrictive environment (LRE): your child learns alongside peers without disabilities to the greatest extent appropriate.
  • An individualized education program (IEP): a written plan with goals, services, and supports, built by a team that includes you.

What are my rights at a PPT meeting?

  • You must receive written notice of the meeting at least 5 school days beforehand.
  • You are a full member of the team, and your concerns and input must be considered.
  • You may bring someone with you, such as an advocate, a family member, or a professional who knows your child.
  • You may ask questions, request clarification, and ask the team to explain jargon or data.
  • You do not have to sign or agree to anything on the spot. You can ask for time to review.

How long does the school have to evaluate my child?

In Connecticut, once a district receives a written referral for a special education evaluation, it generally has 45 school days to complete the evaluation process. The time it takes to get your consent is not counted. The clock starts when the district receives a signed referral or written request.

Tip: Put your request in writing, date it, and send it to the principal and the special education director. Keep a copy.

Do I have to give permission before my child is evaluated or receives services?

Yes. The district must get your written consent before an initial evaluation and, separately, before special education services begin. Consent to evaluate is not consent to provide services.

Will I get a copy of the IEP and written notice of decisions?

Yes. After the PPT decides something, the district must give you Prior Written Notice (PWN) explaining what it will or won’t do and why. Connecticut guidance says the complete IEP and PWN should be given to you at the meeting, or sent within 5 school days. PWN must also come at least 10 school days before the district acts on a decision, unless you and the district agree to waive that period.

What if I disagree with the school’s evaluation?

You have the right to request an independent educational evaluation (IEE) by a qualified outside professional. If you disagree with the district’s evaluation, the district must either pay for the IEE or request a hearing to defend its own evaluation.

Can I see my child’s records?

Yes. You have the right to inspect and review your child’s education records. The district must respond without unnecessary delay and before any PPT meeting or hearing. Under federal law, the maximum wait is 45 days. Ask for records in writing, and request them well before important meetings.

What can I do if we still can’t agree?

You have options beyond the PPT table:

  • Ask for another PPT meeting to revisit the issue with specific data or concerns.
  • Request mediation with a neutral third party through the Connecticut State Department of Education.
  • File a state complaint if you believe the district violated special education law.
  • Request a due process hearing for formal disputes over evaluation, eligibility, placement, or services.

These processes have deadlines, so don’t wait too long to act. Your Procedural Safeguards Notice explains the current time limits. The district must give it to you at least once a year and when you request an evaluation.

What about a 504 plan?

Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act protects students with disabilities who need accommodations to access their education, even if they don’t qualify for an IEP. The procedural protections are lighter than under IDEA, but you still have the right to notice, to review records, and to participate in decisions.

Helpful official resources

Feeling overwhelmed? You don’t have to do this alone.

Knowing your rights is the first step. Understanding how to use them is where Vanessa Visners can help. A former school administrator and a parent of neurodivergent children, she helps families prepare for meetings, make sense of evaluations, and communicate clearly with the school.

Book a private consultation Call (203) 364-4648

This page offers general information, not legal advice. Laws and timelines can change, and every child’s situation is different. For legal questions, consult a special education attorney.