Number: RS22667
Title: The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act: Supreme Court Holds that Parents May Bring Suit Pro Se
Authors: Nancy Lee Jones, American Law Division 
Abstract: In Winkelman v. Parma City School District, the Supreme Court examined the issue of whether the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) permits parents who are not attorneys to bring suit in court, either on their own behalf or as representatives of their child. The Court held that such pro se suits were permitted for parents suing with regard to their own rights. In an opinion written by Justice Kennedy, the Court concluded that IDEA grants parents independent, enforceable rights that encompass a child's entitlement to a free appropriate public education and that these rights are not limited to procedural or reimbursement issues. This report examines the Supreme Court's decision.
Pages: 4
Date: May 25, 2007