Has anyone won a due process case in VA resulting in private placement?

[Anonymous]

We have a DC getting special ed services for LDs in Virginia - but doesn't seem to be meeting IEP goals or making progress. Not getting anywhere on these issues with the school system. Has anyone actually brought and won a due process case in Northern Virginia? A review of decisions posted on the Virginia Department of Education website suggests that schools always win - no matter how seemingly severe/egregious the issue(s) is/are. Thanks for any perspective.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:We have a DC getting special ed services for LDs in Virginia - but doesn't seem to be meeting IEP goals or making progress. Not getting anywhere on these issues with the school system. Has anyone actually brought and won a due process case in Northern Virginia? A review of decisions posted on the Virginia Department of Education website suggests that schools always win - no matter how seemingly severe/egregious the issue(s) is/are. Thanks for any perspective.

School usually wins because the standard they have to meet is surprisingly low, they've been through the process much more than you have, and if they think they might lose they often settle before the case gets there.

Do you have an advocate? They can help resolve many issues. Advocates are expensive, but they are lot cheaper than going through due process with an attorney and paid experts to testify for you.

[Anonymous]

It sucks, but your time and money and energy are probably better spent on tutors than lawyers and advocates (in Va).

Unless you can afford to private pay and then she later for reimbursement-with reimbursement not being a financial necessity.