Glossary of Terms Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR): also known simply as dispute resolution or procedural safeguards; options for resolving disagreements between parents and school districts; Washington’s options include facilitation, mediation, Read More
Category: Where to Begin Toolkit
Who’s Who on the IEP Team
The IDEA requires that certain individuals be included in the IEP team, and their input is valuable in creating a plan that addresses the unique needs of the student. Here Read More
Communication Log
Maintaining a clear record of who said what and when is simplified with a school communication log. This tool streamlines the organization and retrieval of your notes pertaining to phone Read More
Your Child has Met the Eligibility for an IEP – Preparing for the IEP Meeting
Use this checklist to prepare for the meeting to discuss special education and related services with your child’s IEP team.
What You Need To Know About My Child
Using the guiding questions below, prepare a one-pager of skills, challenges, concerns, and interests of your child on the next page. Hello My Name is (Insert name) I am (insert Read More
Sample Letter to the IEP Team – Today Our Partnership Begins
This sample letter introduces a child to members of the IEP team by highlighting their strengths and individual personality, while also providing strategies and information about their disability. Use the Read More
Exceptional Family Member Program (EFMP), Part 1: What Makes a Military Family Exceptional?
A Brief Overview Full Article The Exceptional Family Member Program (EFMP) is a mandatory program for all branches of the U.S. Armed Forces that helps military dependents with special medical Read More
Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
A Brief Overview Full Article What Is SSI? Supplemental Security Income (SSI) is a monthly financial benefit from the Social Security Administration (SSA) to people with limited income and resources Read More
Advocacy Tips for Parents
When a child has a disability, parents often learn that getting their child’s needs met requires persistence, organization, and advocacy. Advocacy is an action. A person is an advocate when Read More