# Maryland special education complaints surge 200% since 2022

> Maryland parents filed 630 special education complaints in 2026, a 200% rise since 2022, as AI tools and advocacy efforts intensify.
- Title: Maryland special education complaints surge 200% since 2022
- Summary: Maryland parents filed 630 special education complaints in 2026, a 200% rise since 2022, as AI tools and advocacy efforts intensify. Maryland special…
- Keywords: maryland, special education, complaints, stacy ganz kahn, montgomery county public schools, ai tools, parental advocacy, education complaints, news, local, special, education
- Source: The Banner — https://thebanner.com/education/k-12-schools/special-education-complaints-maryland-increase-ILU7AFFCL5DL7LFXZ7IKSZMEEQ
- Author: Talia Richman
- Published: 2026-09-28T09:30:00+00:00
- Read time: 1 min
- Topics: maryland, special education, complaints, stacy ganz kahn, montgomery county public schools, ai tools, parental advocacy, education complaints, news, local
## Maryland complaints surge
Maryland parents filed 630 state complaints about special education in 2026, a 200% increase since 2022.
## National trend and federal cuts
The spike aligns with national trends as the Trump administration gutted federal education oversight, reducing parental complaint avenues.
## AI tools boost complaints
Parents use AI tools like ChatGPT to draft complaints, leading to longer filings and more legal citations.
## Stacy Ganz Kahn's role
Stacy Ganz Kahn, a Montgomery County special education advocate, filed hundreds of complaints since 2024, focusing on MCPS.
## Ganz Kahn's personal story
Ganz Kahn was diagnosed with a learning disability in kindergarten and later earned two master’s degrees.
## MCPS complaint impact
Ganz Kahn helped file a complaint for Bethesda mother Oz Papados' autistic son, who faced restraints and inadequate support.
## Investigation outcomes
State investigators found MCPS violated Joseph’s rights, requiring compensatory services and a plan for improvement.
## Systemic challenges
Maryland has among the highest rates of state complaints per 10,000 students, with delays in resolving cases.
## AI risks and warnings
AI tools can create unclear or inaccurate complaints, leading to delays or dismissals, according to advocacy groups.
## State response
Maryland officials cite increased parental awareness, easier filing tools, and evolving advocacy practices as reasons for the rise.
## Next steps
Maryland is addressing complaints through staff training, compliance audits, and stronger accountability for special education services.
## Key takeaway

Maryland special education complaints increased 200% since 2022 due to parental awareness, AI tools, and advocates like Stacy Ganz Kahn filing hundreds of complaints.