A U.S. Government Accountability Office (GAO) report released on December 3 shows that low-income and minority students receiving special education services were less likely than their white, more affluent peers to seek dispute resolution under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA).
The report, IDEA Dispute Resolution Activity in Selected States Varied Based on School Districts' Characteristics, examined if and how families exercise dispute resolution strategies authorized under IDEA when parents disagree with how schools address their children’s special education needs. The findings indicate that students of color and low-income students with disabilities are significantly less likely to exercise their due process rights.
The report was requested by House Education and Labor Committee Chairman Bobby Scott (D-VA) and Senate Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions Committee Ranking Member Patty Murray (D-WA).
To view the GAO report, go here.