Evaluations Part 1: Where to Start When a Student Needs Special Help at School

When a student is struggling in school and may have a disability, families can request a formal evaluation to explore eligibility for special education services. The process includes submitting a Read More

Evaluations Part 2: Next Steps if the School Says ‘No’

Families may feel uncertain or discouraged when a school denies a request for special education evaluation or finds a student ineligible for services. Fortunately, there are steps families can take Read More

Sample Letter to Request a Functional Behavioral Assessment

Families can formally request a Functional Behavioral Assessment (FBA) when a student’s behavior interferes with learning. This process helps schools identify the root causes of behavioral challenges and develop a Read More

Sample Letter to Request an IEP Meeting

Families can request an IEP (Individualized Education Program) meeting at any time—not just during the annual review. A sample letter is available to help parents and guardians formally make this Read More

Sample Letter to Request Evaluation

Anyone with knowledge of a student may request a special education evaluation, and Washington State law requires that referrals be made in writing. Schools must respond within specific timelines and Read More

Developmental Screening (Birth to Three and Medically needed developmental screening)

What is Developmental Screening? Developmental screening is the practice of systematically looking for and monitoring signs that a young child may be delayed in one or more areas of development. Read More

Getting to Know the Individualized Family Service Plan (IFSP)

The Individualized Family Service Plan (IFSP) is an essential tool designed to support infants and toddlers with developmental delays or disabilities. This guide provides a structured overview of each step Read More

Transitioning Rights and Accommodations from IDEA to ADA and 504

The table below outlines the transition from the protections and accommodations provided under an Individualized Education Program (IEP) to the rights and accommodations under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) Read More

Your Child’s Application for Developmental Disabilities (DDA)

A Step -by-Step guide to submitting and application for DDA on behalf of your child. The Washington State Developmental Disabilities Administration (DDA) provides services for individuals with developmental and intellectual Read More

IDEA: The Foundation of Special Education

The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) is a federal law that was passed in 1990 and has been amended. The IDEA provides children with qualifying disabilities, from birth to Read More

From Birth to Three Toolkit

From Birth to Three Toolkit A Guide to Washington Services for Infants and Toddlers (ages 0-3 with disabilities) New parents have a lot to manage. Concern about whether a child’s Read More

Ages 3-5 Transition Toolkit

Ages 3-5 Transition Toolkit A Guide to Washington Services for 3-5 Year Olds with Disabilities New parents have a lot to manage. Concern about whether a child’s growth and development Read More

Where to Begin When A Student Needs Help

Where to Begin When A Student Needs Help A toolkit to guide you through the special education process in Washington State When a student has unmet needs and may need Read More

Planning my Path – A User-Friendly Toolkit for Young Adults

Planning My Path Practical Tips and Tools for Future Planning Presenting our newest resource – the Planning My Path Practical Tips and Tools for Future Planning. This toolkit encompasses a collection of Read More

Starting School: When and How to Enroll a Student in School

A Brief Overview