Special Education - Information for Parents
Parent Handbook on Special Education
This publication is intended for parents of DoDEA students receiving special education and related services in DoDEA's schools. Hyperlinks are provided for cited references throughout the document. For additional information, please contact your local DoDEA school.
Parent Rights and Responsibilities
The mission of the Department of Defense Education Activity (DoDEA) is to provide a quality educational program that prepares all students for success in a global environment. We believe that through equal access to a quality education, all children can be challenged to achieve their best in school, and all can be successful learners.
In DoDEA, students with disabilities are provided a free, appropriate education in schools where placement and service decisions are based on the individual needs of the student, in the least restrictive environment and in accordance with the system's guiding principles. DoDEA is committed to promoting inclusive education, which is defined as the participation of all students, including those with disabilities, limited English proficiency, identified gifts and talents, and other special needs in the general education program, as appropriate.
\The Parent Rights for Special Education document is designed to help you better understand your procedural safeguards as we work together to help your child with disabilities reach his or her maximum potential.
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Sample Complaint Form for Due Process Requests
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A party wishing to initiate a hearing must notify the other party and the DoHA Director of the desire for the appointment of a Hearing Officer to conduct a formal due process hearing by filing a petition (also called a notice or complaint) with the Director of the Defense Office of Hearings and Appeals (DOHA), Post Office Box 3656, Arlington, Virginia 22203. You must also provide a copy of the petition to the school. A sample complaint form is provided above.
Contact Information:
DoDEA Special Education Coordinator
4800 Mark Center Drive
Alexandria VA 22350-1400