A copy of procedural safeguards must be provided to parents in all situations, except for which circumstance?

• A. When a new IEP is developed
• B. During a parent/teacher conference to discuss academics
• C. Before a due process hearing
• D. When there are changes to the student's educational placement

Answer: (B)

Providing procedural safeguards to parents is a foundational aspect of ensuring that parents are informed of their rights and the processes involved in their child's education, particularly in relation to special education services. This requirement is especially relevant in situations where significant decisions are being made regarding a student's Individualized Education Program (IEP) or educational placements.

In the context of a routine parent/teacher conference to discuss academics, the focus is generally on the student's performance and general classroom dynamics rather than specific educational rights or procedural issues. Therefore, there is no obligation to provide procedural safeguards during these meetings. These safeguards are mainly needed in more formal situations that directly affect the student's educational programs, such as developing a new IEP or discussing a change in placement, where parental rights and the procedures to address grievances or disagreements play a critical role.

In contrast, before a due process hearing and when there are changes to the student's educational placement, providing procedural safeguards is essential as these scenarios involve formal legal rights and processes that require full awareness by the parents. Thus, the correct answer highlights the exceptions where procedural safeguards are not mandated.