Advocacy and Resources for Students and Their Families
Top national resources available to support students with exceptionalities and their parents in special education settings and at home
Advocacy and Resources for Students and Their Families
The Special Education Support Resources below are some of the top national resources available to support students with exceptionalities and their parents in special education settings and at home.
Resource 1
National Center for Learning Disabilities (NCLD)
NCLD provides advocacy, research, and resources for students with learning disabilities (LD) and attention issues. The organization helps families navigate Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) and 504 Plans and promotes policies that support inclusive education.
Resource 2
PACER Center (Parent Advocacy Coalition for Educational Rights)
A parent-led organization that offers training, workshops, and resources for families of children with disabilities. PACER also provides assistance with IEPs, transition planning, and inclusion efforts.
Resource 3
Autism Society of America
A nonprofit dedicated to supporting individuals with autism and their families through advocacy, education, and local chapters offering direct support services.
Resource 4
Easterseals
Provides services such as early intervention, therapy, and assistive technology for children and adults with disabilities. Easterseals also offers resources for parents and educators to promote inclusion.
Resource 5
The Arc
A leading advocacy organization for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD). The Arc provides education support, self-advocacy programs, and family resources to ensure students receive appropriate services in school.
Resource 6
Understood.org
A free online resource created for parents and educators to support children with learning and thinking differences such as ADHD and dyslexia. It offers expert advice, interactive tools, and strategies for special education and at-home learning.
Resource 7
Center for Parent Information and Resources (CPIR)
A national hub that connects families to local Parent Training and Information Centers. CPIR offers legal guidance, educational toolkits, and training on special education rights.
Resource 8
Wrightslaw
A go-to resource for parents and educators on special education law, offering information on IEPs, advocacy, and due process rights. The site includes a directory of local support services and legal professionals.
Resource 9
Council of Parent Attorneys and Advocates (COPAA)
A national organization protecting the civil and educational rights of students with disabilities. COPAA connects parents with advocates and attorneys to ensure access to appropriate education services.
Program 10
Learning Disabilities Association of America (LDA)
LDA provides support, advocacy, and training for families, educators, and individuals with learning disabilities. It also offers guidance on IEPs, accommodations, and transitioning to adulthood.
