Checklist of Things Parents Should Bring to the Hearing
The following list was developed by a parent based on personal
experience:
- Advocate and/or Lawyer;
- Your copy of the Dispute Resolution Request form
and any documentation submitted with it;
- A copy of Maine State Education Regulations (MSER)
'99 and Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) '97;
- An Opening Statement (3 copies: 1 for you, 1 for
school, 1 for hearing officer - which becomes part of the official
record);
- A prepared list of questions for each witness (yours
and the school's);
- A Closing Statement (3 copies; see above); and
- Pen and paper.
| "Conclusion of
hearing; reopening of record - Upon conclusion of the
hearing, no other evidence or testimony shall be permitted
unless the record is held open by the hearing officer
for the receipt of additional material specifically
designated. The hearing officer may reopen the record
for further proceedings at any time prior to the issuance
of the final decision upon provision of appropriate
notice to the parties." (MSER, Chapter 101, Section
13.12, p. 87) |
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| Strategies one parent found
helpful to implement during a significant disagreement
with the school district: |
- I collected all my child’s
records.
- I decided exactly what I was
challenging (i.e.: placement). I was very specific
with my concerns. I had lots of documentation to
support my position.
- I tape recorded all my PET meetings.
- I repeatedly reminded myself
that I was an equal participant in my child’s
education. I had rights and responsibilities protected
by law. I EXERCISED THEM!
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