SSALD Resources

There are resources available for families with children who have IEPs and 504 Plans. The National PTA, Washington State PTA (WSPTA) and other local organizations offer tools, support, and information tailored to help parents navigate these processes. These resources can help you better understand the IEP and 504 Plan processes, advocate for your child’s needs, and work collaboratively with educators to ensure your child receives the appropriate support.

Washington State PTA (WSPTA)

   - Special Education Resources: The WSPTA provides a dedicated section on their website for special education, offering guidance and links to resources that can help parents understand their rights and the services available to children with IEPs and 504 Plans.

   - [WSPTA Special Education Resources](https://www.wastatepta.org/focus-areas/advocacy/special-education/)

  - Advocacy Resources: The WSPTA is actively involved in advocacy efforts at the state level to improve educational outcomes for students with disabilities. Their advocacy page includes information on current legislative priorities, how to get involved, and resources for parent advocacy.

   - [WSPTA Advocacy](https://www.wastatepta.org/focus-areas/advocacy/)

Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction (OSPI)

   - Special Education Services: OSPI is the primary state agency overseeing public education in Washington. Their special education page offers detailed information on IEPs, 504 Plans, and the rights of students and parents under state and federal law.

   - [OSPI Special Education Services](https://www.k12.wa.us/student-success/special-education)

   - Parent and Community Resources: OSPI provides resources specifically for parents, including guides on the special education process, dispute resolution, and how to work effectively with schools.

   - [OSPI Parent and Community Resources](https://www.k12.wa.us/student-success/special-education/parents-guardians)

Partnerships for Action, Voices for Empowerment (PAVE)

   - PAVE Special Education Resources: PAVE is a Washington-based nonprofit organization that provides support, advocacy, and education for families with children with special needs. They offer a wealth of resources, including webinars, guides, and a helpline for parents navigating IEPs and 504 Plans.

   - [PAVE Special Education Resources] (https://wapave.org/)

   - Parent Training and Information (PTI) Center: PAVE operates the PTI Center, which offers individualized support and training for parents to help them understand their rights and effectively advocate for their children's needs. [PAVE PTI Center] (https://wapave.org/parent-training-and-information-pti/)

National PTA Special Education Toolkit

   - The National PTA provides a Special Education Toolkit designed to help parents understand their rights and responsibilities when their child has an IEP or 504 Plan. It includes information on how to work effectively with the school team and advocate for your child.

   - [National PTA Special Education Toolkit](https://www.pta.org/home/family-resources/Special-Education-Toolkit)

 Advocating for Your Child:

   - The PTA offers guidance on how parents can advocate for their children with special needs. This includes tips for effective communication with educators, understanding legal rights, and preparing for IEP and 504 meetings.

   - [PTA Advocacy Resources] (https://www.pta.org/home/advocacy)

Individualized Education Programs (IEP) and 504 Plans:

   - This section of the PTA website offers detailed information on the differences between IEPs and 504 Plans, how to request these services, and what parents can expect during the evaluation and implementation process.

   - [IEP and 504 Plan Information](https://www.pta.org/home/family-resources/Special-Education-Toolkit/Individualized-Education-Programs-IEP-and-504-Plans)

National Center for Learning Disabilities (NCLD)

   - While not directly affiliated with the PTA, the NCLD offers extensive resources for parents of children with learning disabilities, including tools for understanding and navigating IEPs and 504 Plans.

   - [NCLD Resources for Parents](https://ncld.org/resources/?resource-cat=6)

Washington Autism Alliance & Advocacy (WAAA)

   - Educational Advocacy: WAAA offers specialized advocacy services for families with children on the autism spectrum, including support with IEPs and 504 Plans. They also provide workshops and training for parents.

   - [WAAA Educational Advocacy] (https://washingtonautismadvocacy.org/)

Washington State Governor's Office of the Education Ombuds (OEO)

   -Special Education Support: The OEO provides support to families by offering assistance in resolving conflicts between families and schools related to special education services. They also offer resources and training to help parents better understand their rights.

   - [OEO Special Education Support]

(https://www.oeo.wa.gov/en/special-education)

The Haring Center for Inclusive Education at the University of Washington is a renowned resource for inclusionary practices in education. They offer several resources for parents to support their children’s inclusion in educational settings. The Haring Center’s website has a dedicated section for parents, offering resources and guidance on inclusionary practices. This includes strategies for supporting children in inclusive classrooms and working collaboratively with educators.

   - Parent Resources: - [Haring Center Parent Resources]

(https://haringcenter.org/resources/for-parents/)

The Arc of King County

The arc of king county offers a variety of resources and support for families with children who have special needs. Here are some key resources they provide:

Family Support Programs

Parent to Parent (P2P):This program connects parents of children with special needs with trained volunteer mentor parents who have similar experiences. The mentors provide emotional support, guidance, and resources.

Resource Navigation: Families can receive help navigating the complex systems of services and supports available for their children. This includes assistance with school services, healthcare, and government programs.

Support Groups: The Arc hosts support groups for families and caregivers of children with special needs. These groups offer a safe space to share experiences, seek advice, and build a supportive community.

Inclusive Recreation Programs: The organization offers recreational and social activities designed to be inclusive for children with special needs. These programs aim to foster friendships, social skills, and a sense of belonging.

Training and Workshops: The Arc regularly conducts training sessions and workshops for parents and caregivers on a wide range of topics, including behavioral support, transition planning, and self-advocacy.

Arc of King County: (https://arcofkingcounty.org/)