A Parent’s Guide to Partnership in Special Education was developed by the Special Parent Information Network (SPIN) and the Special Education Advisory Council (SEAC)–Hawaii’s state advisory panel on special education–with support from the Department of Education. This guide gives our readers basic information about the special education process and encourages parents to be true partners in their child’s education.
We believe that students with disabilities benefit most when our educational system supports partnership between parents, students, teachers, related services professionals and school administrators. This partnership includes welcoming families into the school community, communicating effectively, and working together to support a student’s learning at home and at school. A parent’s expertise about their child’s unique needs, strengths, and future goals is key to ensuring that his or her educational program is individualized to support success.
In this partnership, students are also valued as experts about their own concerns, goals and dreams for the future. With support and encouragement from their parents and teachers, they will grow to be happy and productive adults who will be able to advocate for themselves.
To begin, click on the topic that interests you most:
- How to Use This Guide
- Overview of Laws Impacting Students with Disabilities
- Child Find & Referral
- Parent Consent & Notice
- Evaluation & Re-evaluations
- Determining Eligibility
- Individualized Education Program
- Placement
- Planning for Transition
- Discipline
- Access to School Records
- Handling Disagreements/Due Process
- Acronyms
- Words to Know
Download a PDF of the Parent Guide here.
A print version of the Parent Guide is now available! Call or email us if you’d like a copy of this wonderful resource!
