Complaint Summary
Date Findings Report Sent:
April 17, 2026
Case Number:
26-0391
Grade Level:
Middle
Person filing complaint:
Parent
School District:
Stamford Public Schools
Allegation(s):
- The Parent alleged that the PPT failed to take into account the Student’s individual needs when they denied her request for physical therapy services at a PPT meeting on October 7, 2025.The Parent stated that the Student has been experiencing decreased range of motion and increased stiffness ever since they removed physical therapy from the Student’s IEP.(34 CFR § 300.324(a)(1))
Conclusion(s):
34 CFR § 300.324(a)(1) In developing each child’s IEP, the PPT must consider (i) the strengths of the child; (ii) the concerns of the parents for enhancing the education of their child; (iii) the results of the initial or most recent evaluation of the child; and (iv) the academic, developmental, and functional needs of the child. The Parent alleged that the PPT failed to take into account the Student’s individual needs when they denied her request for physical therapy services at a PPT meeting on October 7, 2025. The Parent stated that the Student has been experiencing decreased range of motion and increased stiffness ever since they removed physical therapy from the Student’s IEP. It is unclear whether the Parent formally requested physical therapy services on October 7, 2025 or just inquired about them. On April 29, 2025 the Parent did formally request that physical therapy service be added to the Student’s IEP, which the District refused. The most recent assessment cited for removal of physical therapy was the assessment from fall of 2023, and observations of the Student at the elementary school. Physical therapy is a related service and must be provided if required for the student to benefit from their education. The most recent assessment and observation show that physical therapy services are not required for the Student to access her education and navigate the school building. Therefore, the District did not violate 34 CFR § 300.324(a)(1) when it refused the Parent’s request for physical therapy.
Corrective Action(s):
Not applicable