WHY IS SEAC NECESSARY?
In Illinois, students between the age of three and
21 who meet the statutory definition of a child with disability
are entitled to, among other rights, a free and appropriate public
education in the least restrictive environment, and a specialized
educational program to meet their unique needs and prepare them
for employment and independent living.
The Illinois State Board of Education reports that
there will be over 300,00 such students being served in Illinois
schools during the 2004—2005 school year.
The reality is that many low-income children do not
receive the level of appropriate educational services provided under
current law. Parents and caregivers are often not adequately informed
of their rights, and may not be able to read or understand the numerous
documents they are asked to review and provide informed consent
to. When disputes arise concerning an educational issue, parents
and caregivers often feel helpless.
On the side of the school district are attorneys and
a long list of experts and professionals, while the low-income parent
or caregiver stands alone. The parent must interpret complex statutes
and regulations and be able to articulate their concerns by means
of oral and written expression. Without the assistance of a legal
representative, the parent is virtually powerless against the school
system.