Discuss with the teacher or the IEP team the change you want to make to your child's IEP and the reason for the change. An IEP team works together to develop the IEP for the child. The team includes the parents, the special education teacher and other educational professionals serving the child, such as a speech therapist, physical therapist, social worker or a psychologist.
If the special education teacher or members of the IEP team disagree with your change, you can ask the principal to intervene in the matter. Depending on the organizational structure of the school district, you can also contact the special education director of that district and request a meeting.
If you are not satisfied with the decision of the principal or the special education director, call the Intermediate School District (ISD) serving your area for help. A representative from the ISD will try to resolve the dispute. Under Michigan law, parents can also ask the school for a mediator who will work with both sides to reach an agreement. The Michigan Department of Education offers mediation at no cost if the school uses the Michigan Special Education Mediation Program.
Download a due process complaint form from the Michigan Department of Education's Office of Special Education and Early Intervention Services website, or obtain the form from the ISD in your area. Follow the procedures on the form and state the problem and how you think it can be resolved. You must deliver a copy of the complaint to the school district. A state administrative law judge will make a final decision on the issue. The school district must implement the judge's decision and show proof that it is in compliance with that decision.