Education Support
Navigating School, Together
IEPs, ARD meetings, evaluations, acronyms. The school side of this journey comes with a language of its own. These guides and answers are here to help it make sense.
Guides & downloads
Resources to Help You Navigate the School System
Free to view or download, anytime — no account needed.
What Is an IEP?
A plain-language walkthrough of IEPs, eligibility categories under IDEA, and how the qualification process works.
Does Your Child Need a More Restrictive Environment?
Understand placement options and specialized settings when a general education classroom isn't meeting your child's needs.
School-Based Supports & Related Services
An overview of therapies and services available during the school day, from speech therapy to behavioral and psychological support.
Frequently Used Special Education Acronyms
A quick-reference glossary for the acronyms you'll hear in ARD meetings, evaluations, and IEP paperwork.
More Guides on the Way
We're building out resources on therapies, evaluations, and financial assistance. Have a topic that would help your family? We'd love to hear it.
Resources are provided for general informational purposes and are not a substitute for legal advice or your school district’s official guidance.
Common questions
Frequently Asked Questions
The answers below are general guidance, not legal advice. For decisions specific to your child, consult your school district or a special education advocate.
What is an IEP, and how do I know if my child needs one?
An IEP, or Individualized Education Program, is a legal document that outlines the specialized instruction, services, and supports your child will receive at school. It is created specifically for your child and reviewed at least once a year. Your child may qualify if they have a disability that affects their ability to learn in a general education setting. To find out, you can request a full evaluation through your school district at any time, and the district is required to respond within a set number of days.
What's the difference between an IEP and a 504 Plan?
Both plans are designed to support students with disabilities, but they work differently. An IEP provides specialized instruction and related services under a federal law called IDEA, and it changes what is being taught and how. A 504 Plan provides accommodations and modifications under Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act, but it does not change the curriculum itself. It simply adjusts how a student accesses it. A child who does not qualify for an IEP may still qualify for a 504 Plan if their disability limits a major life activity at school.
What is an ARD meeting?
ARD stands for Admission, Review, and Dismissal. In Texas, this is the committee meeting where parents and school staff come together to discuss your child’s evaluation results, determine eligibility for special education services, and build or review the IEP. In other states, this is typically called an IEP meeting. As a parent, you are a full and equal member of this committee. Your voice, your observations, and your knowledge of your child all matter in that room.
How do I request an evaluation for my child?
You can request a formal evaluation by sending a written request to your child’s school or the district’s special education department. Put your request in writing, keep a copy for your records, and note the date you sent it. Once the district receives your request, they are required by law to respond within a specific timeframe, either by agreeing to evaluate or by providing a written explanation of why they are declining. If they agree, they will send you paperwork to review and sign before the evaluation begins.
What if I disagree with the school's evaluation or placement decision?
You have rights, and you do not have to simply accept a decision you disagree with. As a parent, you can request an Independent Educational Evaluation, also called an IEE, which means someone outside the school district evaluates your child. You can also ask for another ARD or IEP meeting to discuss your concerns, pursue mediation, or file a formal complaint through your state’s education agency. If you are navigating this process, connecting with a special education advocate can make a big difference.
Where can I find a therapy provider or support group near me?
Our Resource Directory is a great place to start. We have gathered vetted providers across the Dallas-Fort Worth area offering ABA therapy, speech therapy, occupational therapy, counseling, support groups, and more. You can search by service type or location to find options that fit your family. If you are not finding what you need, reach out to us directly and we will do our best to help point you in the right direction.
Still have questions?