How does NHDOE resolve the complaint issue?

NHDOE looks at all the information that is available to determine whether the school district or other program met the requirements of the IDEA. Below are some examples.

If the issue is NHDOE will look to see

Disagreement about a specific service or amount of service

the team's decision is supported by student-specific data and consistent with IDEA requirements

Disagreement about placement (or "least restrictive environment" for the student)

the placement team followed proper procedures, the placement was based on the student's written plan and whether the team's decision is supported by student-specific data

Implementation of the student's IEP

the school district or program implemented the student's IEP as it was written

Lack of progress toward the student's annual goals

the school district or program implemented the student's plan as it was written and made good faith effort to assist the child in meeting the child's annual goals

As this chart indicates, the student's IEP is an important consideration in the complaint investigation process. Parents are important members of the team that develops this plan. As children get older (especially in high school), they also become important members of the team.