The NJ Assembly Education Committee advanced a bill designed to help protect the rights of students with disabilities. The measure (A-1103) would establish an Office of the Special Education Ombudsman in the Department of Education. The office would function as a resource to provide confidential information and support to parents, students, and educators regarding special education rights and services.
The ombudsman’s duties would include, but not be limited to:
- helping interested parties better understand laws governing special education;
- providing information and support to parents in navigating the process of obtaining special education evaluations and services;
- aiding parents and school districts working to resolve disagreements related to education or disciplinary action;
- recommending strategies to improve the state’s implementation of special education services; and,
- serving as a resource for disability-related information and referral to other available programs and services for individuals with disabilities, including early intervention and transition to adult life.
The ombudsman, who would be appointed by the Commissioner of Education, would be required to report to the New Jersey Board of Education and the commissioner of the Department of Education annually regarding services provided during the year, and make recommendations to improve special education procedures and services.
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