Special Education Journey

A step-by-step walkthrough of the special education process from birth through age 22. Each step is its own guide. Enter at any stage — wherever you are in the journey.

Early Intervention

Ages 0–3

Early supports and services for infants and toddlers with developmental delays or disabilities.

Topics covered

Part C of IDEA
Referral & evaluation (IFSP)
California Regional Centers
Lanterman Act (CA)
+1 more topics

Read Step 1 Guide

Identification

Ages 3–22

Recognizing signs of disability and initiating the referral and evaluation process.

Topics covered

Child Find obligations
How to request an evaluation
School's timeline to respond
Prior written notice
+1 more topics

Read Step 2 Guide

Evaluation

Comprehensive assessments to determine whether a student has a disability and needs special education.

Topics covered

Types of assessments
Who conducts evaluations
Independent Ed Evaluations (IEE)
Assessment timelines (CA)
+1 more topics

Read Step 3 Guide

Eligibility

The IEP team reviews evaluation results and determines whether the student qualifies for special education.

Topics covered

13 IDEA disability categories
Eligibility meeting process
504 vs. IDEA — which applies?
Disagreeing with the decision
+1 more topics

Read Step 4 Guide

IEP / 504 Plan

Developing the plan that defines your child's goals, services, placement, and supports.

Topics covered

What must be in an IEP
Goals, services & placement
LRE — Least Restrictive Environment
Related services
+3 more topics

Read Step 5 Guide

Implementation

Ensuring the school delivers the services and supports outlined in your child's plan.

Topics covered

School's obligation to deliver
Progress monitoring
Annual reviews & re-evals
Changing schools / moving
+1 more topics

Read Step 6 Guide

Disputes & Resolution

Mediation, state complaints, due process, and other options when you and the school disagree.

Topics covered

Mediation (free & voluntary)
State complaint process (CA)
Due process hearing
Resolution session
+2 more topics

Read Step 7 Guide

Transition

Ages 14–22

Planning for life after high school — college, vocational training, employment, and independent living.

Topics covered

Transition planning requirements
Vocational rehabilitation
College & higher ed (504/ADA)
Summary of Performance
+2 more topics

Read Step 8 Guide

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