Families

Surrogate Parents

The Individuals with Disabilities Act (IDEA) requires that children with disabilities who do not have parents to advocate for them in the special education process be assigned a surrogate parent. Districts will appoint a surrogate parent when (1) the child’s parent cannot be identified; (2) parent cannot be located; or, (3) the child is a ward of the state. Surrogate parents must provide evidence of completing comprehensive training. Once appointed by the district, the surrogate parent can make decisions about special education issues on behalf of the child/children he/she represents.

What is a Surrogate Parent? A person who represents a child in all matters relating to: (a) the identification, evaluation and educational placement of the child; and (b) the provision of free and appropriate public education to the child.

Who is eligible to act as a Surrogate Parent?

A person who:

1. Is not an employee of the ODE, the school district, or any other agency that is involved in the education or care of the child;
2. Has no personal or professional interest that conflict with the child's interests;
3. Has knowledge and skills that ensure adequate representation of the child; and
4. Has successfully completed training prescribed by ODE.

A five-hour comprehensive training is provided by State Support Teams (SSTs). Once completed, participants will be certified as surrogate parents, enabling them to represent a child in matters relating to the identification, evaluation and educational placement, and the provision of free and appropriate public education.

Check our calendar to register for a face-to-face Surrogate Parent training or complete a PD Request Form to schedule training.

Surrogate Parent certification can also be obtained by completing modules on-line. Go to http://parentsurrogate.edresourcesohio.org to create an account and complete the course.