COSEP is a discussion group focused on the pre-school, elementary and secondary education of children having special needs, and particularly those who qualify for individualized programs and services under the federal Individuals with Disabilities Education Act ("the IDEA"). It is intended to be a safe place where circumstances can be shared, rights and protections learned, and effective remedies both forged and realized.

In the spirit of being a safe forum, COSEP imposes mutual respect for our individual differences as parents and for the rich diversity of viewpoints those differences will most likely engender. Additionally, COSEP imposes a "zero tolerance" policy protecting the identity of its members and ensuring their posts will not be shared offlist without their expressed permission. Within that context, then, posts to COSEP are prohibited from including other recipients.

Membership is restricted to parents and quardians of children who receive special education and services under the IDEA, involved relatives, and those who provide support as advocates and/or attorneys.