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Introduction to Special Education Guide

Published
February 5, 2022
Topics
K-12

Resources for Families

Advocacy, Family Support, Special Education

Federal Special Education Law

Students with disabilities have a right to a free appropriate education in the most inclusive setting possible.

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Advocacy, Special Education

IEP Teams

Learn more about what an IEP meeting looks like, who should attend, and how to effectively advocate for your child.

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Special Education

Key Special Education Documents

Get a better understanding of the key documents you’ll need at an IEP meeting and throughout the special education process.

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Special Education

Overview of the 504 Plan and the IEP

Learn about the supports available through a 504 Plan and the IEP, as well as how to obtain those plans.

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Advocacy, Special Education

Mediation and Impartial Hearings

Explore options to resolve special education problems at school.

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Events

Wednesday May 13, 2026 | 10:00 am

Introducing Elementary Students to the World of Work: Career Development Across the Lifespan 

In this workshop, parents and professionals will explore the importance of beginning career development at the elementary age for students with disabilities.

Language: English
Format: Virtual

Thursday May 14, 2026 | 8:15 am

Positive Solutions for Families- Behavior has Meaning

In this workshop, learn how to observe and examine your children’s behavior. Parents and professionals will practice how to find the meaning behind children’s…

Language: English, Spanish Interpretation
Format: In-Person

Thursday May 14, 2026 | 10:00 am

New York State Alternate Assessment (NYSAA): Essential Information for Families of Students with Disabilities

Assessments are the tests that schools use to measure a student’s progress. In this workshop, we will: NYC families & professionals are welcome.

Language: English
Format: Virtual

Thursday May 14, 2026 | 5:00 pm

What is an Individualized Education Program (IEP) For Families of School-Age Students?

Learn about the fundamentals of the IEP process, including evaluations and eligibility, the roles and responsibilities of school staff and families…

Language: English, Spanish Interpretation
Format: Virtual

Monday May 18, 2026 | 9:00 am

Special Education 101: Training of the Parent Member

Become a certified Parent Member! The Parent Member role is to support a parent of a child with a disability at an IEP meeting. In this training approved by the…

Language: English, Spanish Interpretation
Format: Virtual

Monday May 18, 2026 | 6:30 pm

Positive Solutions for Families- Behavior has Meaning

In this workshop, learn how to observe and examine your children’s behavior. Parents and professionals will practice how to find the meaning behind children’s…

Language: English, Spanish Interpretation
Format: Virtual

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Family Support, Parenting

Enjoying Books with Reluctant Readers

Some children are reluctant to read for many different reasons. Here are some tips that can encourage your child to invest in reading and begin to enjoy it.

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Advocacy, Special Education

Developing an IEP for an ELL

Learn more about the process for how English Language Learners are referred for special education services.

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Special Education

Services for English Language Learners (ELL)

If a student communicates in a language other than English, the NYC Department of Education (NYCDOE) may identify the student as an English Language Learner (ELL).

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