Education

teacher in classroom teaching kids sign language

Education services are available for children, starting at age three, and through age 21 who have an Individualized Education Plan (IEP). The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) provides the legal grounds for children with disabilities to receive a free, appropriate public education in the least restrictive environment possible. These services are administered by the school district where the child lives.

Strategies

Disability Rights Wisconsin is a champion of the rights of children to have access to a free public education, regardless of their disability status. Our advocates have represented many children with disabilities and their parents in ensuring that children are treated with dignity and respect, and are awarded their full legal protections. We have also supported and helped craft legislation to combat unlawful seclusion and restraint in public schools.

Self-Advocacy Resources

Our self-advocacy resources have helpful guidance and further information on issues related to this topic. Learn more below:

  • DRW Self-Advocacy Guide: Filing an IDEA State Complaint

    As a parent of a child receiving special education services, you have the right under the Individuals with Disabilities in Education Act (IDEA) to engage in dispute resolution when you disagree with your child’s school regarding their IEP and educational services. One form of dispute resolution is to file what is called a “state complaint” with Wisconsin’s Department of Public Instruction (DPI). This guide will walk you through the process.

  • Fact Sheet: Bullying

    This DRW fact sheet provides information and resources on what to do if your child is experiencing bullying based on their disability, race, color, sex, or national origin.

  • Fact Sheet: Open Enrollment

    Wisconsin pupils with disabilities can and do participate in open enrollment. A pupil may not be denied open enrollment because the pupil is a child with a disability nor based on the category of the disability. Learn more about open enrollment with this DRW fact sheet.

  • Fact Sheet: School Athletics

    This DRW fact sheet provides information and guidance on non-discrimination in extra-curricular activities, including athletics.

  • Fact Sheet: School Transportation

    Many students with disabilities use the same school transportation as their nondisabled peers. A student with a disability has the right to transportation in their least restrictive environment. Learn more about school transportation with this DRW fact sheet.

  • Fact Sheet: Truancy

    Wisconsin law requires that students be educated between the ages of 6 and 18. This DRW fact sheet provides resources and information on truancy for parents, school districts, and school attendance officers.

Referrals

Other places that may be able to help you:

  • CESA

    CESAs serve educational needs in all areas of Wisconsin by serving as a link between school districts and between school districts and the state.

  • Civil Rights Compliance Information

    The Department of Health Services Civil Rights Compliance (CRC) Office works with those that receive federal financial assistance through the Department to ensure compliance with federal and state laws, regulations and departmental policies and procedures prohibiting discrimination in employment and service delivery.

  • Department of Public Instruction

    The Department of Public Instruction is the state agency that advances public education and libraries in Wisconsin.

Learn More

You can find more information on this topic from these websites and publications:

Act

Want to do more to help protect individuals with disabilities? Please visit our Take Action Page for some ideas and to sign up for news and other alerts from our website. Or Donate Now to help protect and advocate for the rights and futures of all Wisconsin citizens. We'd love to have you join us.

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