Resources

• Commonly used special education abbreviations list
• The APS Parent Resource Center (PRC) is a resource and information center for families, staff and community members. While it offers significant support and training for families of children with special needs, the PRC also has many resources for families seeking information on general parenting topics as well. The PRC staff offer individualized consultations, information, referrals, parent workshops and training, and an extensive library on disability and parenting topics, and sponsor support groups and activities for families with disabilities. Read more about the PRC
• The Special Education Parent Liaisons project is a joint project of APS’ Parent Resource Center (PRC) and the Arlington Special Education PTA (SEPTA). The goal for the project is for each elementary, middle, and high school in Arlington to have at least two parent volunteers who will serve as Special Education Parent Liaisons to support and encourage the flow of information between each of the schools, the PRC, and SEPTA. Read more about Parent Liaisons
• The Arlington Special Education PTA (SEPTA) welcomes parents and teachers from all schools in Arlington. SEPTA provides additional opportunities to get involved with parents and teachers supporting students with disabilities, through regular meetings, activities, and events. https://www.arlingtonsepta.org/
• More about SEPTA SEAC Guide — Guide for Local Special Education Advisory Committees in Virginia
• VDOE — Local Special Education Advisory Committees resources
• VDOE – Federal Law, Regulations, and Policies
• VDOE – State Law, Regulations and Policies
• VDOE – Special Education resources
• VDOE — Troubleshooting Parents’ Special Education Concerns Within A Local School Division (This document is under revision)
• VDOE — Resolving Disputes
• Parents’ Guide To Special Education Dispute Resolution
• Virginia Tiered System of Supports (VTSS): A Guide for School Divisions
• Final Report: Evaluation APS 2013Eval.pdf (1) of APS Services for Students with Special Needs (Public Consulting Group, January 2013

Need Help?

In collaborating to address questions and resolve concerns, it is always best when possible to start with your child’s teacher, case carrier, or related service provider (if the concern involves a related service). The charts below provide a recommended communication sequence, and the PDF links below will link to interactive versions of the chart. Please feel free to contact the Parent Resource Center at 703.228.7239 or prc@apsva.us for additional assistance.
PreK and Elementary Communication Flow Chart

Middle and Secondary Communication Flow Chart