Overview
What it is
Students and families have real rights at school — protections against discrimination, rights to records and information, and the right to be involved and heard. This is a plain-English map of those protections and, importantly, what to do if something goes wrong.
How It Works
How it works
- Protection from discriminationFederal civil-rights laws prohibit discrimination in schools based on race and national origin (Title VI), sex (Title IX), and disability (Section 504 and the ADA), among others.
- Rights for students with disabilitiesThe right to a free appropriate public education and services.
- Records & privacyThe right to see and control your child’s education records under FERPA.
- The right to be informed & involvedNotices, meetings, and a voice in decisions about your child’s education.
- English-learner rightsSchools must help English-learner students access education.
Tips
Tips
- Start close and go upTeacher, then principal, then district, then OCR/state
- Put concerns in writingIt creates a clear record
- Know the specific right at issueDiscrimination, records, special ed, etc.
- Use free helpParent centers and advocates can guide you
- Keep documentationDates, names, and copies of communications
FAQ
Frequently asked questions
- What rights do students have?Protection from discrimination, disability services, records privacy, and a voice in decisions.
- What laws protect against discrimination?Title VI (race/national origin), Title IX (sex), and Section 504/ADA (disability), among others.
- What can I do if my child’s rights are violated?Escalate: teacher, principal, district, then a complaint to OCR or your state.
- Where do I file a civil-rights complaint?With the U.S. Department of Education’s Office for Civil Rights, or your state.
- Where can I get help?Free parent centers and advocates can guide you.
At a Glance
Key facts
- ProtectionsFederal civil-rights laws (Title VI, IX, 504/ADA)
- RecordsPrivacy & access under FERPA
- RightsTo be informed, involved & heard
- If there is a problemEscalate teacher, district, OCR/state
- TipPut concerns in writing
Learn More
Where to learn more
Know your rights and where to turn: