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Date(s):
10/24/2025 12:00 PM ET - 10/24/2025 2:00 PM ET
Description: Register for So, You Want to Make a Difference - This workshop will share practical advocacy tips and strategies to help you have your voice heard. Participants will learn effective approaches for legislative meetings, delivering public testimony, writing impactful letters, organizing phone campaigns, and using tools like petitions, proclamations, and resolutions to advance their cause. View the So, You Want to Make a Difference flyer for additional information that can be...
Description: Checkout the Transportation Options for Students with Disabilities: Getting to/from School Factsheet for Virginia's Parents -Did you know that bus drivers and other transportation staff have an important role in supporting students with disabilities? The Virginia Department of Education (VDOE) reminds schools that when transportation is written into a student’s IEP or 504 Plan, it’s not just about getting a ride, it’s a legally required service that ensures a...
Date(s):
10/22/2025, 11/5/2025, 11/19/2025, 12/3/2025, 12/17/2025
Description: Register for the Special Education Workshop Series - Shifting Seasons, Steady Support - As the leaves change and the year winds down, PEATC remains a steady source of guidance, support, and empowerment for families. Join us for a series of webinars designed to help you confidently navigate special education, build advocacy skills, and prepare for what’s next.(Wednesdays)October 22 - From Referral to EligibilityLearn how the process begins and what to expect every step of the...
Date(s):
9/26/2025 12:00 PM ET - 9/26/2025 2:00 PM ET
Description: Register for the Virginia's HCBS Waiver Programs: Where to go? What to know! Statewide Continuing Education Workshop - The Department of Medical Assistance Services (DMAS) will provide an overview of Virginia’s four HCBS Waiver programs: the Community Living Waiver; Family and Individual Supports Waiver; Building Independence Waiver; and the CCC+ Waiver. How are they different? How do you access them? What services do they offer? What is a support coordinator and a care...
Description: The mission of NCIL is to increase access to, and use of, evidence-based approaches to screen, identify, and teach students with literacy-related disabilities, including dyslexia. This website includes resources for Parents & Families, Schools & Districts and State Agencies.
Date(s):
10/16/2025 6:00 PM ET - 10/16/2025 7:30 PM ET
Description: Register for Planning for the Future - Planning for the future is important for all parents, but for parents of children with disabilities it is vital. This workshop will provide information on options and tools for making these important decisions.Topics that will be covered: Age of Majority, Guardianship, Power of Attorney, Supported Decision-Making, Special Needs Trusts, ABLE Accounts, and Letters of Intent *IN-PERSON WORKSHOP*Location:Botetourt County Public Schools - Board...
Date(s):
11/3/2025 - 11/23/2025
Description: Register for Building Strong Parent Advocates: November 3rd-November 23rd - PEATC, in collaboration with the Virginia Department of Education, invites families to join us for our online training course, Building Strong Parent Advocates. Families of children receiving special education services find themselves in a world filled with complicated policies, confusing acronyms and terms, and piles of paperwork. Often families find themselves looking for information and background knowledge...
Date(s):
11/3/2025 - 11/23/2025
Description: Register for IEP University (IEPU), November 3rd-November 23rd -The IEP process can be difficult and stressful. Everyone comes to the IEP table with thoughts of their personal responsibilities, perspectives, and individual concerns. IEP meetings can be places of high anxiety and there are occasions when conflict may erupt as a result of managing emotions while simultaneously following policy and procedures. PEATC, in collaboration with VDOE, has developed IEP University (IEPU) to help...
Description: Check out PEATC's Understanding the Parts of the IEP Fact Sheet - The IEP is one of the most important tools in your child’s special education journey — but it can also be one of the most confusing. Our new fact sheet, “Understanding the Parts of the Individualized Education Program (IEP),” breaks it all down in plain language just for families. From present levels and goals to services, accommodations, and transition planning, this guide helps you understand...
Date(s):
10/6/2025 - 12/8/2025
Description: Registration for Fall 2025- Transition University - Life is full of transitions. For families of children with disabilities thinking about the future can bring mixed emotions. Some families are just trying to make it through day-to-day challenges and might not feel they have the energy to think about what happens after high school. Others may want to plan for that transition but are confused by unfamiliar language, complex steps, and the many agencies that may be involved in adult services. Join...
Description: When Parents and Schools Disagree: We’ve Got You Covered - Checkout the Dispute Resolution GuideDisagreements about special education services can be confusing and emotional—but you don’t have to navigate them alone. PEATC’s NEW Dispute Resolution Guide is here to help Virginia families understand your options when things aren’t going as they should. Whether you’re curious about Facilitated IEPs, Mediation, Written State...
Date(s):
9/20/2025 8:00 AM ET - 9/20/2025 11:30 AM ET, 11/3/2025 - 11/23/2025
Description: Register for Self-Paced Online VA SEAC Training: November 3rd-November 23rd, 2025 PEATC in partnership with the Virginia Department of Education is pleased to offer SEAC trainings aimed at helping SEAC members understand the role of the local Special Education Advisory Committee in Virginia and to build a more efficient and effective advisory committee. This training will include information on: SEAC in Virginia SPED Regulations SEAC Roles and Responsibilities Building Your Local SEAC...
Description: Visit Best Messaging Apps and Websites for Students, Teachers, and Parents - These apps and websites for texting, messaging, and communication make it easier for teachers to send out assignments, reminders, and progress reports and communicate with parents and students about conferences, field trips, and volunteer opportunities. This list will help you find a tool to keep your communication consistent, reach parents on platforms they're already using, and, in some cases, give students the...
Description: Checkout Effective Classroom Systems by VTSS - Effective Classroom Systems is designed for division and school leadership to develop a plan for the data collection, professional learning and coaching needed at the division and school level in order to promote a sustained focus on the use of effective classroom practices. Classroom practices are the strategies essential to effective instruction and include: arranging the physical environment, active supervision, classroom expectations,...
Description: Check out PEATC's new resource, Tips for Transition to Middle School for Students with Disabilities - that offers practical steps Virginia families can take now to prepare their child for success. From reviewing IEPs to building self-advocacy skills and connecting with staff, this fact sheet walks you through what matters most during this key transition. Let’s help our kids move forward with confidence!
Description: Download the Importance of Reviewing Your Childs School Records Factsheet - Did you know that regularly reviewing your child’s school records is one of the most powerful steps you can take as a parent? These records—like evaluations, IEPs, progress updates, and behavior reports—tell the story of your child’s education. They help you stay informed, advocate effectively, and make sure your child is getting the services and support they’re entitled to. Mistakes happen,...
Date(s):
10/1/2025 6:30 PM ET, 10/15/2025 6:30 PM ET
Description: Register for the Special Education Workshop Series: FALL into Knowledge 2025 - Are you looking to better understand the special education process and how to support your child’s success in school? Don't miss this five-session webinar series designed for Virginia families who want practical, easy-to-understand guidance on navigating special education services!Turn over a new leaf in understanding special education. Whether you’re brand new to special education or need a...
Description: Let’s Hear from the Expert—Your Child!Students with disabilities have unique strengths, preferences, and goals, and they deserve a voice in their IEPs. When students share what they’re good at, what they need help with, and what they want for their future, their IEPs become more meaningful and focused. Download PEATC’s easy-to-use Student IEP Input Form and help your child become an active part of their IEP team today!"Let’s build...
Description: Help Improve Special Education in Virginia—Your Voice Matters! The Virginia Department of Education’s Special Education Parent Involvement Survey for the 2024–2025 school year is now open. If you’re the parent or guardian of a school-aged child with a disability receiving special education services in Virginia, this is your chance to share your experience and help shape improvements across the state.The survey is open through December 12, 2025, and you...
Description: Check out PEATC's new resource to learn more: PEATC’s Special Factors in the IEP Guide - When your child’s IEP is being created or updated, the IEP team must think about certain important areas that could affect your child’s learning and school experience. These are called Special Factors, and they help make sure your child gets the right support to succeed in school. The team must consider behavior that makes it hard for your child or others to learn, your...
Description: Check out PEATC's SAT Accommodations for Students with Disabilities Factsheet - If your child has a documented disability and plans to take the SAT, they may qualify for testing accommodations like extra time, breaks, or assistive technology. These supports help ensure that students with disabilities have equal access to college admissions tests. The process can take up to 7 weeks, so it’s important to start early.PEATC’s new fact sheet breaks down who qualifies, how...
Description: The Virginia Assistive Technology, Tools, and Strategies (VATTS) Resources will guide the IEP team through the consideration and documentation process. These resources replace the previous versions of the AT Consideration and Resource Guide. VATTS: Consideration and Assessment Guidance Document (PDF) - Guidance for school divisions in the consideration and assessment of AT, including planning and implementing those services for students with disabilities. VATTS: Consideration...
Description: Assistive Technology and Your Child’s IEP Check out the PEATC Assistive Technology and Your Child's IEP Factsheet - this factsheet helps families learn what AT is, when it should be discussed, and what schools are required to provide. From pencil grips to communication devices and apps, AT can make a big difference in your child’s success. Read more in our factsheet so you can discuss it at your next IEP meeting!
Description: Check out PEATC's Glossary of Special Education Acronyms and Terms.
Description: Employment is an important part of our identities. Individuals with disabilities, even the most significant disabilities, can work if they receive the appropriate supports. Sometimes, parents are fearful that if their child works, they will lose their Social Security or Medicaid Benefits. Work incentives can help your child earn a paycheck and keep their benefits. Check out PEATC's new resource: Work and Benefits – How Your Child Can Work and Keep Benefits to learn more...
Description: Every child grows and learns at their own pace, but developmental milestones provide a helpful guide to what most children (75%) can do by a certain age. As a parent or caregiver, you know your child best! If you have concerns about their development, talking to your child’s doctor about a developmental screening is a great first step.PEATC has created two valuable resource documents to help families understand and track early childhood development: Your Child's Development Milestones:...
Description: The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (DEA) provides for a free appropriate public education (FAPE) for eligible students with disabilities. Special education and related services are provided under an Individualized Education Program (IEP) that is based on each student’s unique needs. Some students with disabilities may require services beyond the normal school year, during the summer or other school breaks in order to receive a Free Appropriate Public Education (FAPE). These...
Description: This is an opportunity for families to visit PEATC staff in-person! PEATC is working on bringing office hours to each and every region. For current hours and locations visit the Regional Community Office Hours page. Current Regional Community Office Hours include: Abingdon (Washington County) Appomattox Arlington Big Stone Gap Botetourt County Chesapeake Clintwood Covington Crewe Damascus (Washington County) Dinwiddie Farmville Fisherville Franklin Fredericksburg Goochland...
Date(s):
11/7/2025 - 12/12/2025
Description: Early Childhood Academy is a FREE self-paced online course for families of young children (birth through age six) with disabilities & developmental delays. You are your child’s first and most important teacher and you help set a strong foundation for lifelong learning and success! In this 5-week online program, families of children with disabilities learn about supporting their child’s early learning and development and preparing them for kindergarten and beyond. Learn...
Description: PEATC is Virginia’s federally mandated Parent Training and Information Center (PTI). PEATC has staff in your region of the state, ready to provide free and confidential assistance to Virginia’s families of students receiving special education services. Read the Special Education Family Support Centers one-pager to learn more. Additional languages: Amharic Arabic Spanish Urdu Vietnamese
Description: Apps Developed by ATware Solutions, LLC - This app development team is in the process of launching several new apps for people with disabilities, service providers and professionals working in the field of special education.
Description: The I'm Determined Project provides 12 Self-Determination Checklists on various topics for educators and families. The checklists include: Self-Determination Educator Checklist Self-Determination Elementary Educator Checklist Self-Determination Elementary Parent Checklist Self-Determination Elementary Student Checklist Self-Determination Parent Checklist Self-Determination Student Checklist Self-Determination Elementary Parent Checklist - Spanish Exit Survey Parent Exit Survey Student Exit...
Description: Transiton POINTS: Across the entire lifespan - Families need realistic, actionable information with which they can make a wide range of decisions as their child grows up. The Arc of Northern Virginia’s Transition POINTS program (Providing Opportunities, Information, Networking and Transition Support) provides critical information on six key decision points in the lifetime of an individual with an intellectual disability. Six Transition Guides are provided: Early Intervention Special...
Description: The Assistive Technology & Accessible Educational Materials (AT&AEM) Center is committed to ensuring access for all people with disabilities. The center promotes accessibility and personalization, creates and disseminates accessible materials and offers specialized training and technical assistance.
Description: Self Directed IEPs - A Parent Factsheet and Self-Directed IEPs - Your child's IEP (Individualized Education Program) is more than a plan for their education—it’s a roadmap to their future. Encouraging them to take a self-directed approach to their IEP can help them develop critical self-advocacy skills, build confidence, and ensure their voice is heard in planning for their goals after high school. PEATC offers a variety of resources to help families and youth navigate...
Description: Your Life Your Voice provides ways for pre-teens, teens, and young adults to get help via call, text and email. Their trained counselors are able to offer advice for real life situations and they can be reached 24/7 via phone at (800) 448-3000 or by texting VOICE to 20121. They also provide tips and tools on their website for a number of issues such as coping skills, transitioning to adulthood, anxiety, abuse, identity, depression and more. It includes information on a Your Life Your Voice...
Description: This resource includes Free VESOL Literacy Instruction Materials: Reading Comprehension Files Core, Fringe and Robust AAC Vocabulary Alternatives Pencils/Manual Boards with Alphabet Math Social Emotional Learning, Social Stories & Visual Supports Cooking Files Art and Music Files Talker Power Files
Description: Adaptive Toys for Children with Disabilities and General Toy Safety Inclusive Gifts for Kids with Disabilities and Their Families What Are Switch-Adapted and Switch-Activated Toys and Games?
Description: Creating an Autism-Friendly Holiday: Strategies for a Joyful Season - The holiday season can be overwhelming for many. Disrupted routines, travel, increased social gatherings and expectations, can contribute to stress and dysregulation. This article shares ideas on how to reduce stressors to contribute to a more joyful season for the entire family.
Description: This Microlearning Training provides small bites of learning on hot topics focused around foundational knowledge and easy-to-implement skills and strategies. Microlearning is always available and take just 10-15 minutes to review. This Microlearning series includes: Social-Emotional Learning Early Childhood Toolkit Classroom Essentials: Schedules Strategies to Support Autistic Learners Strategies to Support Everyday Transitions Foundational Five for Families
Description: Using Functional Behavioral Assessments to Create Supportive Learning Environments - What is a Functional Behavioral Assessment (FBA)? What are the Common Characteristics of an FBA and Behavioral Support or Intervention Plans (BSP/BIPs)? How Can an FBA Be Used to Inform Instructional Strategies? What Guiding Principles Support the Effective Development and Implementation of FBAs and BSP/BIPs? How Can FBA's Support Students with Disabilities? And more...
Description: Decision Tree: How to Assist and Support Students through Interventions - When a parent, teacher, another person, or a school-based team thinks a student has a health condition, learning difficulty, or other challenges that are affecting the student’s ability to learn, the school should take a proactive approach to determine the type of support and/or services that will help meet the student’s needs. This could be a range of informal and/or formal services provided by one or more of...
Description: Video- Play in Early Childhood: The Role of Play in Any Setting - When children play, they can reduce sources of stress, strengthen core life skills, and build responsive relationships with caring adults—all of which are core principles of early childhood development. This video highlights the importance of play.
Description: Text and Online Acronyms Parents Need to Know - When it comes to texting, parents and children don’t speak the same language. Texting often includes acronyms. An acronym is an abbreviation, that consists of the initial letters of the other words and is pronounced as a single word. When you look at your child’s text messages or online chats, you likely won’t understand these acronyms. But they are popular on the internet and found mostly on social media platforms because they...
Description: The Brain Architects Podcast: Building Resilience Through Play - These days, resilience is needed more than ever, and one simple, underrecognized way of supporting healthy and resilient child development is as old as humanity itself: play. Far from frivolous, play contributes to sturdy brain architecture, the foundations of lifelong health, and the building blocks of resilience, yet its importance is often overlooked. In this podcast, Dr. Jack Shonkoff explains the role of play in supporting...
Description: Brain-Building Through Play: Activities for Infants, Toddlers, and Children - From infancy on, play is an important part of a child’s life. This handout series, developed with support from the LEGO Foundation, provides suggestions games and play-based activities based on a child’s age. The activities for younger children are designed for adults to engage in with children. Activities for later ages allow the adults to step back, enabling children’s independence to blossom...
Description: Virginia's students, families, and educators have long deserved a system that prioritizes high expectations for every child and provides clarity on how each school is preparing students for success. Virginia’s new accountability system, the School Performance and Support Framework, builds trust among schools, parents, and communities through transparent, easy-to-understand reporting on a school’s performance. The Framework shows how students are mastering grade level content,...
Description: College Options for Students with Disabilities - College programs for students with disabilities are as unique as the students they support. Programs differ by awarded credentials, admission requirements, costs, and the levels or types of support, just to name a few. There are many different options for students with disabilities to access college. The three main categories of college options for students with disabilities are college accommodations, supported education programs, and Inclusive...
Description: Counseling on Educational and Training Options is one of the five pre-employment transition services (pre-ETS) categories. Providing students with counseling on educational and training options after high school opens multiple pathways for future career and financial stability and success. Students should receive guidance on the full variety of options available to them, such as college, vocational programs, and apprenticeships. Providing students with education and training guidance helps...
Description: What are the Diffferent Kinds of Learning Disorders? This article talks discusses: What kinds of learning disorders can kids be diagnosed with? and What are some common signs of learning disorders? Early Signs of Learning Challenges - This article answers the following questions: What are the earliest signs that a child might have learning challenges?, How old do kids have to be to be diagnosed with a learning disability? and What can parents do to help?