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Surrogate Parents

What Is a Surrogate Parent?

A surrogate parent is a trained volunteer who steps in to represent a child in the special education process when the child’s legal parent or guardian is not available. The surrogate ensures the child’s rights are protected under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA).

Under IDEA, a “parent” may include:

  • A biological or adoptive parent
  • A foster parent
  • A legal guardian with authority to make educational decisions
  • A person acting in place of a parent (such as a grandparent or stepparent with whom the child lives)
  • A surrogate parent officially appointed under the law

When Is a Surrogate Parent Assigned?

A surrogate parent may be appointed when:

  • The child’s parent or guardian cannot be located or is unavailable
  • The court has terminated parental rights
  • The child is an unaccompanied homeless youth, as defined by the McKinney–Vento Homeless Assistance Act

What Does a Surrogate Parent Do?

A surrogate parent has the same rights and responsibilities as a birth or legal parent in the special education process. This includes:

  • Learning about the child’s educational history and needs
  • Receiving official school notices and updates
  • Participating in meetings and decisions about the child’s Individualized Education Program (IEP)
  • Approving or rejecting the IEP and the Notice of Recommended Educational Placement (NOREP)
  • Requesting mediation or due process if they disagree with the school’s decisions

Only a legal parent, foster parent, person acting as a parent, or an appointed surrogate parent can make these decisions.

What Information Can a Surrogate Parent Access?

Surrogate parents have the right to:

  • Review and request copies of the child’s school records
  • Visit the child’s classroom
  • Talk to teachers and staff
  • Gather any information needed to make informed decisions for the child

Who Appoints a Surrogate Parent?

In Pennsylvania, the local school district is responsible for identifying students who need a surrogate parent and assigning one when appropriate.

Who Can Be a Surrogate Parent?

To qualify, a surrogate parent must:

  • Have no conflict of interest with the child (such as being a school employee involved in the child’s education)
  • Have the knowledge and skills needed to effectively advocate for the child

Need More Information?

If you have questions or need help finding a surrogate parent in the Susquehanna Community School District, please contact:

Elizabeth Shivock
Special Education Supervisor
(570) 853-4921 x1335