How to File an Effective OCR Complaint (Part 1): Know Your Rights and Get It Right

Do you know your rights when it comes to filing a federal complaint for disability discrimination?
In this powerful Part 1 of our 3-part training, Karen Mayer Cunningham—The Special Education Boss®—walks you through how to effectively file an OCR (Office for Civil Rights) complaint with the U.S. Department of Education.

If you’ve ever thought:
👉 “Should I file a federal complaint?”
👉 “What does OCR actually cover?”
👉 “What goes into a successful filing?”
👉 “Can I file as an advocate, or only as a parent?”

Then THIS episode is for you.

Here's what you’ll learn:

• What the Office for Civil Rights (OCR) is—and what it’s not
• The difference between an OCR complaint vs. a state complaint
• Who can file: parent, guardian, advocate, or group
• The strict 180-day timeline to file (and why most people miss it)
• What OCR does not investigate (and why knowing this matters)
• Step-by-step walkthrough of the OCR Complaint Assessment System
• What to include (and NOT include) in your complaint narrative
• Sample wording for discrimination, denial of accommodations, and retaliation
• How to request meaningful remedies like training and compensatory time

Whether you're a parent, advocate, educator, or professional, this training will help you sit at the table prepared, informed, and effective.

📍This is Part 1 of a 3-part series. Stay tuned for Part 2, where we’ll unpack what happens after you file—including interviews, investigations, and settlements.

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✨ When we get it right for the child, we get it right for everybody. ✨

👩‍⚖️ Hosted by Karen Mayer Cunningham, Advocate & Special Education Boss®
Each week, Karen shares real stories, legal insights, and no-nonsense strategies to help you navigate special education with clarity and confidence.

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📬 Have a question? Email us at [email protected]

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🧠 Want to level up your advocacy game?
Check out the Advocate's Bookshelf — a curated collection of must-have tools, guides, and legal references every special education advocate should own. From federal code to diagnostic manuals, these are the essentials that help you advocate with clarity and confidence.

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