Free Resources
Plain-language guides, checklists, and reference materials for California parents navigating the special education system. Everything here is free, based on IDEA and California Education Code, and written for parents — not lawyers.
What Is an IEP? A California Parent's Guide
A plain-language introduction to the Individualized Education Program — what it is, who it covers, and what rights it guarantees your child.
California IEP Meeting Prep Checklist
A complete checklist of everything to gather, review, and prepare before you walk into any IEP meeting.
How to Prepare for an IEP Meeting in California
Step-by-step guidance on getting ready — from reviewing your child's records to knowing what questions to ask at the table.
IEP Meeting Tips for California Parents
Practical strategies for the meeting itself: how to listen, what to document, when to slow things down, and how to leave with clear next steps.
IEP Goals Examples for Parents (California)
Real examples of well-written, measurable IEP goals across reading, writing, math, speech, behavior, and social skills.
How to Write a Parent Concerns Letter for Your IEP Meeting
Learn what a parent concerns letter is, why it matters, and how to write one that gets your observations into the official record.
Triennial IEP Review Checklist for California Parents
What the triennial re-evaluation covers, what to look for in the reports, and the questions you should ask when the team meets.
California Special Education Parent Rights
An overview of the most important rights you hold under IDEA and the California Education Code — in plain English, with citations.
Prior Written Notice in California: What Parents Need to Know
What Prior Written Notice is, when the school must provide it, and how to request it whenever the district proposes or refuses a change.
Independent Educational Evaluation (IEE): California Parent Guide
Your right to get an independent evaluation at public expense, how to request one, and what happens after you do.
IEP Glossary for Parents: Plain Language Guide
The most common IEP terms, acronyms, and education-law phrases translated into plain language every parent can use.
What Is a SELPA? California Special Education Local Plan Areas Explained
What SELPAs are, how they affect your child's education, and how to find and contact the one that covers your district.
California Parent SST Prep Checklist & Next Steps Plan
What a Student Study Team meeting is, how to prepare for it, what to bring, and what questions to ask before, during, and after your SST.
IEP vs. 504 Parent Comparison Guide and 504 Meeting Prep Checklist
Side-by-side comparison of an IEP and a 504 plan, how to tell which your child may need, and how to prepare if a 504 meeting is next.
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