Changes to special education in the works

Minnesota Department of Education officials are considering changes to the state's special education rules.

Department of Education officials say the changes are necessary to satisfy new federal legislation under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act.

The rules under review apply to behavioral intervention and the care and treatment of special education students outside the traditional school setting.

Amy Roberts with the Department of Education says the changes will standardize existing regulations and make it easier for school districts and parents to understand their rights.

"Parents have rights they can demand the district to address," says Roberts.

Roberts says the issues parents face can be very emotional for them and the school district.

Officials are inviting people to a public hearing today at the Department of Education to learn about the proposed changes.