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PWN
Prior Written Notice
What it actually means for your child.
Legal Definition
Prior Written Notice is a legal document the school must provide whenever they propose to initiate or change, or refuse to initiate or change, the identification, evaluation, or educational placement of your child, or the provision of FAPE. It must contain the specific reason why the school is making or refusing the change.
Why You Must Care
PWN is your paper trail. If you ask for a service in an IEP meeting and the school says no, you must ask them to put that refusal in a Prior Written Notice. It holds them accountable.
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