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Q&A

Representation of families in special education hearings and OATH's support

2:23:59

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105 sec

Council Member Restler inquires about the representation of families in special education hearings and OATH's support for unrepresented families. Commissioner Rahman provides data on representation rates and explains OATH's approach to supporting unrepresented parties.

  • The percentage of special education cases where parents are represented by counsel or other representatives decreased from 94.36% to 72.28%.
  • Approximately a quarter of families do not have representation in special education hearings.
  • OATH hearing officers have an ethical duty to ensure all individuals, including unrepresented parties, have a fair opportunity to present their case.
  • OATH does not currently track outcomes based on whether parties have representation or not.