Can Parents Volunteer in Special Education Classrooms Despite Privacy Concerns?

It’s frustrating to be denied volunteering in a child’s special education classroom due to privacy concerns.

 

The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) protects student records but doesn’t prohibit parents from volunteering in any classroom, including special education, as long as they follow confidentiality guidelines.

 

Schools may restrict special education volunteering to avoid accidental disclosure of sensitive information, like IEPs, but policies vary. Some allow parents to assist with tasks like reading or crafts if they sign confidentiality agreements.

 

Request a meeting with the special education coordinator to clarify the school’s policy and explore roles like supporting field trips or preparing materials outside the classroom.

 

Parent groups can share experiences on volunteering successfully.

 

If restrictions persist, VillageED’s IEP development resources can guide advocacy for involvement: https://www.villageed.org/iep-development.