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Special Education, demystified.

IEPs, 504 Plans, evaluations, advocacy. We translate the jargon, point you to verified Bay Area providers, and connect you with parent advocates who've been exactly where you are.

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Real people, real conversations.

Know your rights

Plain-language overview of California SpEd law.

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Short, parent-friendly explainers of the most common Special Education topics.

IEPs (Individualized Education Programs)

An IEP is a legal document that spells out the special-education services your child receives in a public school. It includes goals, accommodations, and the specific services the district will provide. You are an equal member of the IEP team — your voice matters.

504 Plans

A 504 Plan provides accommodations (extra time on tests, preferential seating, etc.) for students with a documented disability who don't need specialized instruction. It's faster to obtain than an IEP and applies in any school that receives federal funding.

Autism support

From early intervention through high school, Bay Area districts offer a range of supports: social-skills groups, inclusive classrooms, ABA, and dedicated autism programs. We can connect you with experienced parent mentors and providers.

ADHD support

ADHD often qualifies for a 504 Plan or, when academic impact is significant, an IEP. Common accommodations include extended time, movement breaks, and structured executive-function coaching.

Speech therapy

School-based speech-language services are free if your child qualifies. Private speech therapy is also available and often covered by insurance. We list verified Bay Area providers in our Resources directory.

Occupational therapy

OT helps with fine motor skills, sensory regulation, and daily-living skills. Sensory-integration OT in private clinics is a great complement to school-based services.

Counseling & mental health

Most Bay Area districts now offer school-based counseling. We can also help you find culturally-matched private therapists who specialize in children and teens.

Questions to ask your school

Walk into your next meeting with confidence. Bring these — and our advocate-approved framing.

  • 1

    What are the specific eligibility criteria you'll use to evaluate my child?

  • 2

    Who will be on the IEP/504 team, and what are their roles?

  • 3

    How often will progress be measured, and how will it be reported to me?

  • 4

    What does inclusion look like in practice at this school?

  • 5

    How are accommodations communicated to substitute teachers?

  • 6

    What's the dispute-resolution process if we disagree?

Free, confidential

Talk to an Advocate

We'll match you with a Bay Area parent advocate who specializes in your child's needs. First conversation is free — no obligations.

  • Help preparing for an IEP meeting
  • Independent evaluations & second opinions
  • Disagreements with the district
  • Transitioning between schools

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