Stay Put
Your child's right to remain in their current educational placement while any disagreement about their IEP or placement is being resolved through due process. The school cannot change your child's placement during this time.
Related Terms
Due Process
A formal way to resolve disagreements between you and the school about your child's special education. You can request a "due process hearing" where an impartial hearing officer makes a decision. This is a legal proceeding.
Placement
The educational setting where your child receives their special education services. This could range from a general education classroom with support to a separate specialized school, depending on your child's needs.
Stay Put in context
Stay Put comes up across the IEP process — in your IEP document, during meeting prep, and in the federal rights that protect your child. IEP Ally explains where it shows up and what to do about it.
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Upload Your IEP — Free →This glossary is provided for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Definitions are simplified for parent-friendly understanding and may not reflect the full legal text. Consult a qualified attorney or advocate for advice about your specific situation.