Parents' Use of Litigation to Enhance the Experience of Students With Disabilities in Online Schools

• In Event: 52.068 - Litigation Trends in K–12 Education Relating to Students With Special Needs and School Privatization

Abstract

Virtual schooling is gaining in popularity in the United States. Parents increasingly view online schooling as a viable option for their children with disabilities as schools promise to deliver individualized, self-paced instruction and provide additional supports either within the home or at regional centers. Parents play an important role in online schooling because most of this form of education is provided in the child’s home over the Internet. This research analyzes the opportunities and trials of virtual schooling for students with disabilities by examining the legal challenges parents have brought surrounding their participation. It identifies common problems and concludes with suggestions for both parents and schools on structuring a successful experience for students with disabilities in virtual learning environments.

Authors

• Regina R. Umpstead, Central Michigan University

• Nicole Snyder, Latsha Davis & McKenna

• Linda Weiss, Central Michigan University