Parents as Partners

Utah Parent Center has many great resources for parents that have children with special needs.  It is a great spot for parents to know their rights, find help and talk to other parents.  One of the best resources is the Parents as Partners Handbook that guides parents through the education process for their child with special needs.

Full Version of Parents as Partners can be seen here.

Individuals with Disabilities Act

According to the US Department of Education:
The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) is a law ensuring services to children with disabilities throughout the nation. IDEA governs how states and public agencies provide early intervention, special education and related services to more than 6.5 million eligible infants, toddlers, children and youth with disabilities.Infants and toddlers with disabilities (birth-2) and their families receive early intervention services under IDEA Part C. Children and youth (ages 3-21) receive special education and related services under IDEA Part B.

The full version of IDEA can be seen here.

This act is important because it ensures that children with disabilites have access to a free and appropriate education.  It is the primary federal law that governs Individual Educations Plans and the special education process.  It is important to me because as an educator it is my responsibility to ensure that I give all students the best education I possible can.  The Individual Education Plans are a great way for teachers, students and parents to collaborate to ensure that the child receives the best and most appropriate education.