Special Education ComplaintsAccountability Programs : Minnesota Department of Education

Special Education Complaints

Special Education Complaints

The special education complaint system is designed to ensure that all students with disabilities are provided a free appropriate public education. A complaint can be filed about any entity that provides publicly funded educational services directly to students, that has violated a state or federal special education law or rule. Before filing a complaint, Minnesota Department of Education (MDE) encourages parents or other persons to first contact the school district’s Director of Special Education, who may be able to help resolve the issue. Below you will find resources to help you further understand how and when to file a complaint with MDE.

How to file a Special Education Complaint  72Kb (4/21/08)
     This document outlines the way to file a special education complaint with Minnesota Department of Education and what happens once a complaint is received.
Optional Complaint Form  46Kb (9/27/07)  40Kb (9/27/07)
     Suggested form for submitting a special education complaint
Private School Complaint Form  13Kb (10/6/05)  27Kb (10/6/05)
     This document is for private School Administrators
Private School Consultation Form  46Kb (5/25/07)  26Kb (5/25/07)
     This form can be used by public schools to affirm compliance with the IDEA's requirement that district's "obtain written affirmation signed by representatives of participating private schools" that timely and meaningful consultation has occurred.
Procedural Safeguard Notice  93Kb (2/23/07)  58Kb (2/23/07)
     Parental Rights for Public School Special Education Students
Rights Overview  1Mb (7/27/05)
     Describes available state-provided special education dispute resolution systems