All children have a right to a quality public school education.  

 

In this state many children don't receive the education they deserve. CJP helps families get good public school education for their children. 

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Some areas we have worked on include:

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Rights of disabled students in school districts serving many low income families

 

Disabled students in low income school districts are particularly hurt by the way Pennsylvania distributes state funds to support special education. The distribution formula ignores the actual number of disabled students in a district, and the severity of their disabilities. Instead, the state gives out money based on an inaccurate estimate of “average” disability statewide. Districts with higher than average rates of disability receive much less aid per student—in some cases thousands of dollars less per student than what is given to districts with a lower rate of disability. As a result, many disabled students in the “poor” districts receive inadequate support services.

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CG, et al v. Pennsylvania Department of Education, et al., No. 06-cv-01523 (M.D. Pa)

 

Rights of disabled students to make and pursue complaints about their education

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The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) and its implementing regulations require that states have a timely and meaningful complaint procedure that includes a remediation and enforcement process for disabled students.

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L.T. on behalf of S.T. (M.D. Pa.)

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Punishment of disabled students for disability-related behavior

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The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) and the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) require accommodations and help when a student’s otherwise inappropriate behavior is caused by a disability.

 

S. v. Highland School District, et al., 05-310 (W.D. Pa.)