There are occasions when a school must identify a surrogate parent for a student. A surrogate parent is a person appointed to represent the interests of a child with a disability in the educational decision-making process when that child has no other parent representation.
The surrogate has all of the rights and responsibilities of a parent under Part B. Thus, the surrogate parent is entitled to
- participate in the child’s IEP meeting,
- see the child’s education records, and
- receive notice, grant consent, and use due process to resolve differences.
Your local ISD/RESA should be able to provide information specific to your district. Michigan Department of Education has information available:
- Policy for the Appointment of Surrogate Parents for Special Education Services.
- Surrogate Parents and Special Education Decision-Making Guidance
More resources:
- Surrogate Training (PACER)
- Special Education Tips for Foster Parents Who are Surrogate Parents
- Foster Care Resources
