Special Education Advocacy
Comprehensive special education advocacy services in Washington, DC
We advocate for your child's right to a free appropriate public education (FAPE) through every stage of the special education process.
Individualized Education Program (IEP) meetings can be overwhelming. We ensure your voice is heard and your child's needs are properly addressed.
Common IEP issues we address:
Schools are required to evaluate children suspected of having a disability. If the school refuses or delays, we can help.
Know your rights: If you disagree with the school's evaluation, you have the right to request an independent evaluation at public expense.
When you and the school disagree about your child's education, we guide you through the resolution process.
Mediation is a voluntary process where a neutral third party helps you and the school reach an agreement.
Before a due process hearing, there's a mandatory resolution session where both parties attempt to resolve the dispute.
If mediation and resolution fail, filing a due process complaint may be necessary to protect your child's rights.
When disputes can't be resolved informally, a due process hearing provides a formal legal proceeding to enforce your child's rights.
Understanding the Timeline: The due process hearing must be completed within 75 days from the date you file your complaint. The first 15 days are dedicated to resolution attempts. If not resolved, a hearing is scheduled within the next 45 days.
Due process hearings are similar to court proceedings. You need experienced legal representation to effectively present your case.
Special education students have specific protections when facing suspension or expulsion.
Important: Special education students can generally only be suspended for 10 school days per year. Longer suspensions or expulsions trigger additional protections and require the school to continue providing educational services.
When a special education student faces expulsion or suspension beyond 10 days, the school must determine whether the behavior was caused by or related to the child's disability. If yes, the child generally cannot be expelled.
If your child's behavior interferes with learning, the school should conduct an FBA and create a Behavior Intervention Plan (BIP).
All students, including those with disabilities, have the right to a safe school environment.
Your child has the right to be educated in the Least Restrictive Environment (LRE) with appropriate services and supports.
The school must provide a placement that allows your child to receive FAPE. Sometimes that means a different school or a private placement at public expense.
Related services help your child benefit from special education.
Some students need services during the summer to prevent significant regression.
DC has unique challenges and opportunities for special education students
In Washington, DC, the field of Education Law is particularly complex, with a broad range of schools:
Key DC Agencies:
Donovan Anderson has extensive experience working with all of these entities to secure appropriate services for DC children.
Don't navigate the special education system alone. Let our experience work for your family.
Request a ConsultationOr call (202) 610-1400 to speak with us directly