FILING A COMPLAINT ROAD MAP

​

This step isn't to be taken lightly and if you're at this point and have exhausted all other resources to reach a resolution, then filing a complaint is the next step. The State Department of Education, Division of  Monitoring, Compliance and Planning has 60 calendnar days to investigate and resolve a written complain from the parent who believes their child's rights under the special education laws have been violated. A parent can file a complaint with DOC against the school district for violations of the timelines set out in this section. The complaint must be filed within one year of the violation. If DOC finds that a child's right to an appropriate education has been violated, it will order compensatory education
 

Click on this link to get access to the form and packet. This form is used to submit a formal complaint to the PA Department of Education, Bureau of Special Education (BSE) - Division of Compliance. If you need more information about the complaint process or if you are unable to print the form and would like to receive a complaint form by mail, please contact the Special Education Consult Line at 1-800-879-2301 (within the state of Pennsylvania) or 717-901-2146.

​

Complaints regarding discrimination in schools:

Human Relations Representative

Intake Division

Pennsylvania Human Relations Commission:

Harrisburg Regional Office: Voice (717) 787-9780, Text (717) 787-7729

Philadelphia Regional Office: Voice (215) 560-2496, Text (215) 560-3599

Website: https://www.education.pa.gov/K-12/Special%20Education/Complaints/Pages/default.aspx

​

Complaints Against a Pennsylvania Department of Education Employee:

Pennsylvania Department of Education

Equal Employment Opportunity Representative

Bureau of Human Resources

Where: 11th floor, 333 Market Street, Harrisburg, PA 17126

Voice: (717) 783-9348

Text: (717) 783-8445

​

General Questions Regarding Educational Law or Issues:

Pennsylvania Department of Education

School Services Unit

Director

Where: 333 Market Street, 5th Floor, Harrisburg, PA 17126

Voice: (717) 787-4860

Text: (717) 783-8445