Parents must be given prior written notice when...

• A. Federal law requires 'reasonable' prior written notice.
• B. The district proposes to do anything or the district refuses to do something.
• C. IL law requires 10-day prior notice.
• D. The district must provide prior written notice only at IEP annual reviews.

Answer: (B)

Prior written notice is required whenever a district takes action that affects a student’s identification, evaluation, or placement, or the provision of FAPE. This means any time the district proposes to do something or refuses to do something in those areas, parents must receive written notice. The notice explains what action is proposed or refused, the reasons and data supporting the decision, other options the district considered, and the procedural safeguards available. This helps parents understand and participate in decisions about their child’s education and ensures transparency in how changes to services or placements are handled. It isn’t limited to a general federal requirement for “reasonable” notice, it isn’t a fixed Illinois 10-day rule, and it isn’t only required at annual IEP reviews—notice is needed for any proposed action or refusal.