Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA): What is a Parent?

Under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), the term 'parent' is broadly defined to ensure that children with disabilities have a dedicated advocate involved in their educational planning. According to IDEA, a 'parent' can include any of the following:

Biological or adoptive parent: The child's natural parent unless the parental rights have been legally terminated.

Foster parent: Unless state law, regulations, or contractual obligations with a state or local entity prohibit a foster parent from acting as a parent.

Guardian: An individual legally responsible for the child, but not the state if the child is a ward of the state.

An individual acting in the place of a biological or adoptive parent: This includes grandparents, stepparents, or other relatives with whom the child lives, or an individual who is legally responsible for the child's welfare.

A surrogate parent: Assigned in accordance with IDEA when no parent can be identified or located, or when the child is a ward of the state under the laws of that state.

This definition is inclusive to ensure that a responsible adult is available to support the educational needs and rights of the child, especially in situations where traditional parental roles might not be applicable.