Family-Friendly Resources for Parents of Kids with Special Needs
Terri Mauro has done it again. She’s put together more parent-friendly education-related resources at about.com. Of all her resources featured here at DifferentDream.com (to discover how many times she’s been featured, type “Terri Mauro” or “about.com” in the search box), these take the cake. At least so far.
State By State Special Education Eligibility Guide
Yep, you read it right. The first resource is an online guide that includes every state in the union. A very complete online guide. It lists the states in alphabetical order and provides the following links for each:
- A PDF of the state’s special education legislation.
- A link to a summary of each state’s special education services. The summary includes links to more information and lots of contact information. (This is still a work in progress.)
- A link to each state’s legislature site.
- A place for you to write about your special education experience.
It is truly amazing. Someday, I’d like to look at Terri Mauro’s closets to see if they’re as well-organized as her website!
Sample IEP Forms
A second helpful resource web page has sample IEP forms from a half-dozen states and some specific to certain special needs. Though they may not be exactly like the forms used in your school district, they are a way for you to become familiar with the general IEP format. (Please don’t blame teachers for creating these confusing, intimidating forms. They’re government issue!)
What Special Education Resources Have You Found?
Maybe you’ve found some special education resources to share, too. If so, please leave a comment and a link, if the resources are online. Anything to improve the education of our kids with special needs is appreciated!
Glad I’m not filling out those forms,
Jolene
Ha! No. You do not want to look at my closets. Thanks for the kind words about my site, though!
You’re welcome, Terri. I love your website. And I’m secretly pleased to hear your closets are not as well organized as your site. Makes me feel like we could be kindred spirits.
Thanks for all you do!
Jolene