Education: Guides

The Office of Special Education and Rehabilitative Services (OSERS) published this guide. The Office of Special Education Programs (along with partners in the Rehabilitation Services Administration) has issued this guide to advance efforts in ensuring that all students and youth with disabilities are equipped with the skills and knowledge to be engaged in the 21st century workforce.

This transition guide addresses the following topics to facilitate a seamless transition from school to post-school activities:
Transition planning: opportunities and programs
Transition services and requirements, as authorized by the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act and the Rehabilitation Act;
Education and employment options for students and youth with disabilities after leaving secondary school; Supporting decisions made by students and youth with disabilities.

The Individualized Education Program (IEP) is a written document that is developed for each eligible child with a disability. Federal regulations specify the procedures that school districts must follow to develop, review, and revise the IEP for each child. This toolkit is designed to help you understand your child’s right to a free appropriate public education (FAPE), and how to work together with your school district to create an effective IEP.

Dozens of free autism social skills lessons, games, card activities, worksheets, wall displays and more. This site is updated regularly.

The manual outlines relevant topics, including the current state of research findings, professional judgment and data-based clinical decision making, values and preferences of families, and capacity building. Each chapter sets a course for advancing the efforts of school systems to engage in evidence-based practice for their students on the autism spectrum.

Guide from Autism Speaks written by Goodwin Procter LLP with checklists, a timeline and tips for navigating the IEP process. Includes a very detailed summary of the IEP process, sample letters for parents to send to educators, and how to handle disputes.

Information sheet on self-determination in school-based meetings. This guide is directed specifically for self-advocacy for teens.

This guide is a resource for parents. Its purpose is to give each family the information and tools needed to successfully navigate the education system anywhere in the country. More specifically, it offers:

— Background on special education in the United States
— An understanding of the laws and regulations about special education
— An overview of the timeline of services
— A detailed explanation of Individualized Education Programs (IEPs)
— Tips and techniques for being an effective advocate
— Sources and links that will help you identify specific state resources and find more in-depth information
— Lists and definitions of terms that are frequently used in school systems

Online guide for individuals with disabilites that discusses what to look for in an online college education.

This guide provides a quick overview of the different common disabilities some college students have and the different resources and technologies available to them. Categories include mobile app recommendations, software, and online resources.

This document offers tips and ideas, as well as suggested grants and giveaways a parent can investigate when researching the purchase of an iPad.

View the guide here.

Website devoted to special education law, education law, and advocacy for children with disabilities.