Who is OSEP? What difference do they make?

Office of Special Education Programs (OSEP): This is a federal agency responsible for ensuring that schools are informed and knowledgeable about special education services. The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) is the Act that ensures all children and students get a free, appropriate public education. It is the basis of all IFSPs (Individual Family Service Plans) for families with children from birth to age 3; and IEPs (Individual Education Programs) for families of children ages 3-22, or until they finish high school.

Why does America have this Act? Well, during the time of social unrest in the late 1960’s, many parents with children with disabilities wanted their children to be educated. After all, they were tax-paying citizens and their children were being denied an education! They marched their children with down syndrome, autism, cerebral palsy, etc. up to the schools and demanded the school system pay attention! Well, they did and now thanks to our foremothers we have specially designed schools, supports and services for our children and they are included in their neighborhood schools!

Now you have an opportunity to make some changes to IDEA! Right now, until November 17, 2014 is a period where OSEP wants to hear what you like and what you do not like in the newly proposed IDEA. Do you see where changes could make something stronger for your child and others? Tell them! This is the opportunity that only comes every 5 years when reauthorization happens! Share your PARENT VOICE TODAY!

DATES: Interested persons are invited to submit comments on or before November 17, 2014.
http://www.gpo.gov/fdsys/pkg/FR-2014-09-16/html/2014-22025.htm