If you are a Wisconsin special education parent, you’ve come to the right place. We know how complex the special education system can be, and we also know the resources that can make it easier. No need research resources, we did that for you! Listed below are the top ten Wisconsin special education parent resources.
1. Procedural Safeguards
The special education system is may be complex, but you have rights. The Procedural Safeguards is a document that explains your rights at every step of the special education process. You should have received a copy when your child was referred for an evaluation; however, you can also find the Procedural Safeguards online. Because the Safeguards is a legal document, it can sometimes be confusing. The next resource on this list can help you understand the safeguards.
2. Wisconsin Statewide Parent Educator Initiative (WSPEI)
If you need help understanding the Safeguards, WSPEI can help. WSPEI is a resource hub funded by the Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction. They provide many helpful resource documents, including a handbook named “Special Education in Plain Language”. As the name suggests, this handbook is user-friendly and a great document to refer to when you need assistance understanding the system.
3. Kidvokit for Wisconsin
If you are tired of searching for emails and keeping track of IEP documents, Kidvokit can help. Kidvokit is an online tool that keeps you organized. It automatically files all IEP-related emails, allowing you to easily access them when needed. Additionally, Kidvokit creates a timeline with your documents and can answer your IEP questions with its AI assistant, keeping you prepared for IEP meetings. Visit our ‘How it Works” page to learn how Kidvokit can help you.
4. Center for Parent Resources and Information (CPIR)
The Center for Parent Information and Resources (CPIR) is a nationally funded organization that provides education and resources to families of children with disabilities. CPIR has parent centers throughout the country, and Wisconsin has two parent centers: WI FACETS and ALAS. Both centers offer parent training and online resources. Additionally, both centers provide personal assistance through their helpline. The primary difference between the two parent centers is that ALAS primarily focuses on serving second-language English speakers. Visit their websites to learn how they can assist you!
5. Parent to Parent of Wisconsin
Have you ever wanted a personal special education guide? Parent to Parent can provide that! This program pairs families with a volunteer Parent Mentor who can provide guidance, advice, and referrals. Parent Mentors are parents of children with disabilities who have been trained to help other families. Visit Parent to Parent of Wisconsin’s website to be connected with a Parent Mentor!
6. Wisconsin Family Ties
Wisconsin Family Ties also offers a family mentor program. Family Ties primarily serves families with children who have behavioral, emotional, or mental health difficulties. Their Parent Peer Specialist Program is very similar to the Parent to Parent Program; however, their volunteers are all parents who have experience raising children with behavioral, emotional, or mental health issues. The Peer Specialist can provide referrals, support, and guidance on navigating the education and medical systems.
7. Disability Rights Wisconsin
Disability Rights Wisconsin (DRW) can empower you to be an even stronger advocate for your child. DRW’s mission is to empower all individuals with disabilities by providing advocacy and legal assistance. Their website offers easy-to-understand guides and fact sheets on your rights in special education. Additionally, if an issue occurs, DRW can help. Their experts can provide advice, advocacy, and legal assistance if needed. Visit Disability Rights Wisconsin’s website to learn more.
8. YouTube
No surprise, YouTube is a wealth of information. There are many special education channels on YouTube, but two channels worth checking out are The Center for Parent Information and Resources and The National Center for Learning Disabilities. Both provide helpful videos on the special education system, learning disabilities, and resources available.
9. Facebook Groups
You are not alone in navigating the special education system. Many parents are on this road with you, and connecting with them can be helpful. Connecting with parents who understand what you are going through provides a sense of support. Additionally, other parents can offer guidance and referrals, making your journey easier. Facebook is a convenient platform to connect with other parents. A few Wisconsin-specific parent groups to look into are: Autism Families of Wisconsin, Decoding Dyslexia Wisconsin Network, and SNAP EC: Special Needs and Parenting Support Group.
10. Understood.org
A final resource worth mentioning is Understood.org. Understood believes everyone deserves to be understood. They have hundreds of blogs written by experts explaining learning differences. They also offer tips and guides on how you can support your child. Understood.org can help you understand what your child is experiencing and how you can support them.
Wisconsin Special Education Resource Recap
We hope this list reminds you that you are not alone on this journey of navigating the special education system. Many other parents are experiencing the same difficulties (and joys) as you. Wisconsin parents have access to multiple parent centers, parent mentor programs, advocacy assistance, and support groups. Utilizing these resources can make your journey easier and help you become an even stronger advocate!
Visit our homepage to learn how Kidvokit can save you time and keep you prepared!
