Urgent Update: The Arizona Early Intervention Program (AzEIP) has just announced a critical opportunity for public input on proposed changes to child and family confidentiality procedures. This initiative, which aligns with the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) and the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA), seeks to enhance the protection of sensitive information for families involved in early intervention services.
From November 10 through December 12, community members are encouraged to share their thoughts via the AzEIP Public Comment form available on their official website. This move aims to gather diverse perspectives and ensure that the updated policy reflects the needs of the community it serves.
Parents and stakeholders are urged to take immediate action, as the window for feedback is limited. This feedback is vital to shaping policies that affect some of the most vulnerable members of society—children with disabilities and their families.
For those unable to access the online form, written comments can be mailed directly to the Arizona Early Intervention Program, located at 1789 West Jefferson Street, Phoenix. Submissions via mail will be accepted without postage costs, emphasizing the importance of this issue.
Why This Matters: Confidentiality in early intervention services is crucial. The proposed revisions aim to bolster the trust families place in these vital programs. Stakeholders are reminded to avoid including personal information that could be publicly disclosed in their comments.
As the deadline approaches, it’s imperative for those affected by these policies to voice their opinions. AzEIP’s initiative is a significant step towards enhancing privacy protections, and community engagement is essential to ensure the new procedures effectively serve families.
Stay tuned for updates as the public comment period progresses. Your voice matters—act now to shape the future of child and family confidentiality in Arizona’s early intervention services.
