September 2026

RESOURCES

Overview of Transition Planning for Parents

Check out the Information About the Texas Transition and Employment Guide on the SPEDTex website. This family-friendly document is a condensed version of the original resource, Pathways: The Texas Transition and Employment Guide. It provides essential tips and highlights to help parents and caregivers support their child with disabilities in preparing for life after high school. It covers critical areas of transition planning such as education, employment, independent living, and community involvement. Designed to empower families, the guide offers practical strategies, suggested timelines, and valuable resources to support a smooth and successful transition from the public school system to adult life.

What is Prior Written Notice?

Partners Resource Network outlines parents' legal rights under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) to receive Prior Written Notice (PWN) from schools. PWN is required whenever a school proposes or refuses to initiate or change the identification, evaluation, educational placement, or the provision of a Free Appropriate Public Education (FAPE) for a child with a disability. This resource explains what the notice must include, such as a description of the proposed or refused action, the reasons for the decision, the data used, and other options considered. Learn more about Prior Written Notice.

Joining Your Child's Team

This helpful guide for families navigating early intervention or special education services offers practical advice for becoming an active, informed member of your child’s support team. It outlines ways to participate meaningfully in Individualized Education Program (IEP) meetings, share your insights, ask questions, and collaborate with professionals. With clear examples and supportive tips, it builds confidence and encourages strong partnerships to support your child’s development. Explore the Teaming and Collaboration Practice Guide for Families on SPEDTex.

UPCOMING EVENT

Working Together for Student Success: Understanding Early Resolution

Join us for an informative webinar on September 23, 2026, at 12:15 p.m. (CT) to learn how families and schools can resolve special education disagreements collaboratively. Discover how the Early Resolution process offers guided, solution-focused conversations to help families and school teams reach common ground. Register here.

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ABOUT SPEDTEX

The Special Education Information Center (SPEDTex) provides resources and interactive features for increasing family awareness of disabilities and special education processes, with the goal of improving partnerships between schools and families.