If you place your child in private school at your own expense (including a religious school) your child still has the right to receive special education services from the school district in which you reside.
2011 Semi-Annual Pro Bono Report
Legal Fees- How Much is Your District Willing to Pay?
When it comes to School vs. Parent legal disputes, it's not a fair fight. Schools budget for education legal services, parents do not. Schools have attorneys on retainer, parents do not. Schools are ALWAYS represented by lawyers at due process proceedings. Most parents find it extremely difficult to afford representation.