Special Education

A student becomes eligible to receive special education services through a referral and evaluation process. If you suspect that your child has a disability and may need special education services, request in writing that your child be evaluated to determine special education eligibility. This written request is best directed to your school psychologist or your district’s special education director.

Every child who has been evaluated and found eligible for special education services must have an Individualized Educational Program (IEP). An IEP is a written document developed by an IEP team. The IEP team is composed of various educators and the parent(s) or legal guardians of the student. The IEP is tailored to meet the individual needs of the student as identified through the evaluation process.

As a parent, you are a critical member of the IEP team. You may invite individuals who know your child and can provide additional information about his/her strengths and needs to IEP meetings. The IEP team meets at least one time each school year to discuss and revise the student’s IEP.

If English is not your first language, and you need an interpreter for IEP meetings, you can let the school psychologist, the special education teacher or principal know in advance so arrangements can be made for translation assistance.

Two primary laws that protect the educational rights of students with disabilities: Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (“IDEA”) and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 (“Section 504”). For more information on both, see OEO’s parent handbook “Protecting the Educational Rights of Students with Disabilities in Public Schools” | Español (Spanish)

Other Special Education resources

Washington State Resources for Parents of Students with Autism Spectrum Disorders

Washington State Resources for Students with Autism Spectrum Disorders

Office of the Superintendent for Public Instruction, Special Education Ombudsman
Kristin Hennessey
360-725-6075
[email protected]

ARC of Washington
The Arc of Washington state’s mission is to advocate for the rights and full participation of all people with developmental disabilities. Along with its network of members and chapters, it supports and empowers individuals and families; connects and informs individuals and families; improves support and service systems; influences public policy; increases public awareness; and inspires inclusive communities.
http://www.arcwa.org/

Easter Seals
Easter Seals Washington provides exceptional services to ensure that people with disabilities and families in need have equal opportunities to live, learn, work and play.
http://wa.easterseals.com

Washington PAVE
Washington PAVE is a parent-directed organization that works with families, individuals with disabilities, professionals and community members in all walks of life and with all types of disabilities. Since 1979, PAVE has provided information, training and support for more than 1 million individuals with disabilities, parents and professionals.
http://www.washingtonpave.org/

Seattle Special Education PTSA
A group of concerned parents founded the Seattle Special Education PTSA in June 2006 to serve students with disabilities, their families and educators. It is a non-traditional Parent-Teacher-Student Organization. It is not school-based but instead has members throughout the Seattle Public Schools district. It is affiliated with the Washington State PTA and National PTA.
http://www.seattlespecialedptsa.org/