Following an IHO hearing, what is a likely next step for parents if dissatisfied with the outcome?

When parents are dissatisfied with the outcome of an Individual Hearing Officer (IHO) decision, appealing the decision is a common and appropriate next step. The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) provides parents with the right to challenge decisions that they believe do not adequately address their child's needs or rights under the law.

The appeal provides a means for parents to seek a review of the IHO's findings, often before a higher authority, such as a state educational agency or a court. This process allows for a formal and structured examination of the evidence and arguments presented during the hearing, ensuring that the decisions related to their child's education are fair and justified.

In contrast, resting in the current decision would result in parents accepting the IHO's ruling without further action, which may not support their child's needs adequately. Calling for a school board meeting, while a potential avenue for discussion, does not typically hold the same legal weight as an appeal, and may not directly lead to changes in the IHO’s decision. Seeking mediation could be beneficial in certain scenarios, but it often occurs prior to a hearing or as a means of resolving disputes without going through an appeal process. Hence, appealing the decision is the most directly relevant and effective next step for dissatisfied parents