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Compare the proposal with the IEP and evaluations. Section 300.116 requires parents and knowledgeable participants, at least annual review, and a decision based on the IEP and least-restrictive-environment rules. A school’s name alone does not explain its program.
Specific questions for the team and school visit
Ask how needed skills will be taught, what staff and supports will be available, how therapy and transportation will be delivered, and how progress will be measured. Clarify schedules, curriculum access, and participation with nondisabled peers. Document observations and unanswered questions.
Least restrictive environment
The rule favors education with nondisabled peers to the maximum appropriate extent, considering supplementary aids and services. Placement should be as close to home as possible, with harmful effects on the student or service quality considered. Needed curriculum modifications alone do not justify removal from age-appropriate regular classrooms.
If disagreement remains
Identify in writing the need the proposal does not address and request prior written notice of the decision. A school visit does not by itself establish placement acceptance; document the visit’s purpose and any reservations. Before choosing privately, review the requirements and risks in the related topics.
The public offer and visits require agency action
Do not accept a school without examining it or assume you must independently solve the absence of an appropriate offer. Ask DEPR to identify in writing how the IEP will be implemented, available programming and supports, or what will be created and when. Bring evaluations and a needs checklist to the visit; document what you observe, not merely the school’s name.
Manual §8.4 assigns visit coordination to the designated official using SAEE-07b and allows up to 10 working days for visits and reconvening. SAEE-07 records the placement notice. Request missing arrangements in writing before accepting or rejecting.
The answer for your situation depends on the facts and records. An inquiry does not suspend legal deadlines or guarantee that the office will accept the case.
Reference sources
34 C.F.R. §300.116 · Decisión de ubicación / Placement decision34 C.F.R. §300.114(a)(2) · Ambiente menos restrictivo / Least restrictive environment34 C.F.R. §300.320(a) · Contenido del PEI / IEP content34 C.F.R. §300.503(a)–(c) · Notificación previa escrita / Prior written noticeManual DEPR 2020 · §8: rutas y visitas / Pathways and visitsDEPR · Procesos y formularios SAEERules must be read in context. This explanation may require updating and individual review.