Resource Library

Facilitation takes place in a team meeting such as an individualized education program (IEP) team.

View and download: Facilitation Information Sheet

FAQ sheet on types of evaluations and how to ask for an evaluation.

View and download: Getting Your Child Evaluated

At a glance

• A special education evaluation will show if a child has a disability and needs specialized instruction and support. 

• These evaluations go by many names, including special education assessment, school evaluation, and IEP evaluation.

• An evaluation for special education will show a child’s strengths and challenges.

More information: Understanding Evaluations

This interview will help you write a letter to your child's principal requesting an evaluation for special education services. This is the first step in the process to create an Individualized Education Program (IEP) for your child.

More information: Special Education Evaluation Form Assistant

An overview of what happens when you refer your child to be evaluated for special education services.

More information: Referral and Evaluation Process

The evaluation process may feel complicated, and there are many key stops along the way.

View and download: Evaluation Roadmap

Requesting an evaluation, evaluation planning, reevaluation process tips.

View and download: Evaluation and Reevaluation Tips

Progress monitoring is a part of a student’s IEP used.

View and download: Individualized Education Program Tips for Teens

This resource was written to provide more detail on the transition section of the IEP Checklist.

View and download: Transition IEP Checklist

You may want to consider creating an IEP binder to keep all your paperwork in one place. But you can also use this handy checklist to get organized for your next IEP meeting. Below are some things you may want to prepare and take to the meeting.

View and download: What to Bring to an IEP Meeting

Facilitation takes place in a team meeting such as an individualized education program (IEP) team.

View and download: Facilitation Information Sheet

An Individualized Education Program (IEP) outlines the educational services provided.

• IEP stands for Individualized Education Program.

• The purpose of an IEP is to lay out the special education instruction, supports, and services a student needs to thrive in school.

• IEPs are part of PreK–12 public education.

More information: What is an IEP?

An IEP is a written statement for a child with a disability that is developed, reviewed, and revised in a meeting in keeping with certain requirements of law and regulations. 

More information: Contents of the IEP

Defines ETRs, IEPs, LREs.

More information: Ohio Required and Optional Forms

Making the transition to college is challenging, particularly for students with visual impairment. Navigating accessibility and preparing for accommodations ahead of time is important for a successful college experience. In this guide we will share some tips for making your online college experience easier.

More information: https://www.edumed.org/resources/visual-disabilities-online-college/

This guide breaks down accommodations by disability.

View and download: 504 Accommodations Guide

• Under federal law, public schools must look for, find, and evaluate kids who need special education.

• This is called Child Find, and it covers kids from birth through age 21. 

• It applies to all kids, including those who are homeschooled or in private schools, plus kids who are migrants or without homes.

More information: What is Child Find?

Introductory breakdown of IDEA 2004.

View and download: Understanding the Evaluation Process

So–who’s on the team? Here’s a list, as specified in IDEA, our nation’s special education law. 

More information: The IEP Team

ODE resources for IDEA sped categories.

More information: Disability Specific Resources

Special education, for students ages 3 to 21, is guided by federal and state requirements. The federal requirements are referred to as the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA). The state requirements are referred to as the Ohio Operating Standards for the Education of Children with Disabilities (Ohio Operating Standards).

More information: A Guide to Parents Rights in Special Education

Free online course for middle/high school students with disabilities; discusses transitions and employment.

More information: Enroll for Free

Guide for students 14-21 with disabilities to prepare them for job search process, healthcare changes and more.

View and download: A Practical Guide for Young Advocates with Disabilities

Support for students with disabilities to complete college requirements.

More information: Ohio College2Careers

Use this glossary to look up the definitions for disability related terms.

More information: Special Education Glossary