Information Regarding Filing and Resolution of Parent Complaints Regarding Special Education Services for BCPSS Students

Federal Law, the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), requires school districts to set up procedures that allow parents and legal guardians to file complaints with the school system regarding special education services for their child. Therefore, in keeping with the spirit and intent of the law, the BCPSS has established a unit that will have the sole responsibility to respond to parents’ complaints regarding special education services for their children. This unit will receive all complaints brought under IDEA and will coordinate with other offices in the school system and investigate legitimate concerns. A written response including a proposed resolution will be mailed to the parent within 45 days of the unit’s receipt of the complaint.

The BCPSS maintains that all complaints regarding the education of students should be handled at the school level, by the principal, if possible. However, if a parent or legal guardian has been unsuccessful in resolving their special education related concerns with the principal or area academic officer, or believes that the issue requires the assistance of a specialist, they may forward a written complaint and/or concern to the Complaint Unit of the Office of Student Support Services.

The use of this complaint process does not in any way limit or waive a parent or legal guardian’s right to file a complaint with the Maryland State Department of Education or request mediation or a due process hearing through the BCPSS Office of Due Process. The phone number for the Office of Due Process is 410-396-8916.

If, after reviewing the Complaint Unit’s findings contained in its written response, the parent or legal guardian is not satisfied that their concerns have been resolved, the parent or legal guardian maintains the right to have their concerns addressed by the Maryland State Department of Education.