Resources by Topic >> EducationGeneral Resources
DC Department on Disability Services
The DC Department on Disability Services (DDS) provides the residents of DC with information, oversight, and coordination of services for people with disabilities and those who support them, such as service providers and employers. DDS has two Administrations ( Rehabilitation Services Administration & Developmental Disabilities Administration ) that oversee and coordinate services for residents with disabilities through a network of private and non-profit providers.
REHABILITATION SERVICES ADMINISTRATION (RSA) - focuses on employment, ensuring that persons with disabilities achieve a greater quality of life by obtaining and sustaining employment, economic self-sufficiency and independence. RSA’s program is designed to assess, plan, develop, and provide vocational rehabilitation services for individuals with disabilities, consistent with their strengths, resources, priorities, concerns, abilities, capabilities, and informed choice, in order to prepare for and engage in gainful employment 34 C.F.R. § 361.1
DEVELOPMENTAL DISABILITIES ADMINISTRATION (DDA) - public agency responsible for the oversight and coordination of all services and supports provided to qualified persons with intellectual disabilities in the District of Columbia.
Adult Learning Department, Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial Library
The DC Public Library's Adult Learning Department (ALD) provides literacy services to individuals who are age 18 or older. The ALD has instructional, informational and leisure reading materials for adult developing readers and speakers of other languages. The ALD also provides resource materials for teachers and tutors of literacy, ABE, GED and English as a Second Language (ESL).
American University Academic Support and Access Center
The Academic Support and Access Center (ASAC) supports the academic development and educational goals of all American University students and promotes access for individuals with disabilities within the university's diverse community. Autism NOW Transition Planning for Students This section of the Autism NOW website defines transition planning, highlights transition plan requirements set forth by the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), and lists factors associated with the successful transition of students with Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASDs). Best Colleges' Career Guide for Students with Disabilities Students with disabilities can make the college-to-career transition a smooth one with the assistance of career counseling, job search workshops, and career plan development on campus. This guide provides career planning resources for students with disabilities who are just beginning their job search. Building the Legacy/Construyendo el Legado: A Training Curriculum on IDEA 2004 The Building the Legacy / Construyendo el Legado training curriculum is intended to help all those involved with children with disabilities understand and implement the IDEA 2004, the nation’s special education law. The curriculum is organized according to five themes central to IDEA with multiple training modules beneath each theme. The five themes are:
Each individual module within each of these themes includes:
Building the Legacy/Construyendo el Legado was produced by NICHCY at the request of the Office of Special Education Programs (OSEP) at the U.S. Department of Education.
Capitol Technology University, Disability Support Services
Capitol Technology University's Disability Support Services coordinator helps students with special needs or learning differences gain equal access to college services and programs.
The Catholic University of America, Disability Support Services
Answers questions concerning accommodations and services available and provides information about and give referrals to admissions, registration, financial aid, and other services within the university. DSS can help assess needs in such areas as housing accommodations, attendants, interpreters, readers, transportation, classroom and course accommodations, tutors, notetakers, and adaptive equipment.
Center for Educational Excellence in Alternative Settings (CEEAS)
CEEAS directly operates educational programs for system-involved youth and supports efforts around the country to improve education in youth and adult correctional settings.
Center for Employment Training
The Mission of CET, an economic and community development corporation, is to promote human development and education by providing people marketable skills training and supportive services that contribute to self-sufficiency.
CentroNía
CentroNía provides early childhood education, professional development to educators, and family support services in a bilingual and multicultural environment. ChoiceMaker Self-Determination Curriculum The ChoiceMaker Curriculum is designed to teach students the self-determination skills needed to be successful in adult life. The ChoiceMaker Curriculum consists of three strands: (1) Choosing Goals, (2) Expressing Goals, and (3) Taking Action. Each strand addresses teaching objectives in three transition areas: Education, Employment, and Personal. College & Career Readiness and Success Organizer The College & Career Readiness and Success Organizer brings together essential considerations for career and college readiness that are equal in importance and interconnected. The organizer has four central strands: goals and expectations, outcomes and measures, pathways and supports, and resources and structures.
College Living Experience
The CLE team provides individualized services across the areas of academics, career development, independent living, and social skills. Correctional Education Guidance Package Developed through a partnership between the U.S. Departments of Justice and Education, this guidance package is designed to inform the efforts of states, school districts, and juvenile justice facilities that serve system-involved youth. The package includes recommendations and federal requirements for ensuring that youth in confinement receive an education comparable to those provided in traditional public school settings.
DC College Savings Plan
The DC College Savings Plan can help you start saving right now for post-secondary education. The plan allows you to save and invest money that is tax-deferred and federal tax-free (if you use it for qualified post-secondary education expenses only).
DC LEARNs (D.C. Literacy Education, Advocacy and Resource Network)
DC LEARNs is a nonprofit citywide coalition of organizations providing adult, family, and children’s literacy services to the residents of Washington, DC. Their work includes: training, policy work and analysis, pilot projects, volunteer recruitment, and gathering and providing information on literacy programs.
DC Public Library Center for Accessibility
The DC Public Library's Center for Accessibility assists individuals with limited mobility, visual or hearing impairments. The Center provides:
DC Shares
DC Shares the place where you can donate gently used durable medical equipment. DC Shares cannot provide services without donations. If you have medical equipment going unused please consider donating it to DC Shares. DC Shares serves low income District residents with disabilities who are unable to get the durable medical equipment they need. Since 2007 DC Shares has been a place where those with disabilities can come to get the Durable Medical Equipment and Assistive Technology Devices that will enable them to live independently. DC Shares provides electric wheelchairs, manual wheelchairs, walkers, canes, shower benches and other durable medical equipment free of charge to those who are uninsured, underinsured, or have no other means of obtaining these devices.
DC Special Education Co-operative
The DC Special Education Co-operative facilitates the development of high -quality, compliant special education programs. These programs promote disability awareness, literacy, and increased accountability among local education agencies (LEAs). The Co-op also provides various support services, including:
DC Tuition Assistance Grant Program (DC TAG)
The DCTAG Program is available to eligible District of Columbia residents only. For those who qualify or graduated from high school on or after January 1, 1998. This program offers a funding opportunity to attend a public or private college or university throughout the nation or its territories. The grant pays the difference between in-state and out-of-state tuition at public colleges or universities up to an annual maximum of $10,000 ($5,000 per semester); at public two year schools up to $2,500 per year ($1,250 per semester); at private
HBCUs or DC private 4 year universities, up to $2,500 ($1,250 per semester). The application and other information is available on-line at
www.dconeapp.dc.gov
DCPS Competitive Employment Opportunities Program
Washington, DC Are you a professional working in the District of Columbia who is interested in becoming a youth mentor? Are you a student looking to apply as a participant?
Are you just curious as to what the CEO Program is all about? Great, we are happy you stopped by. Use the tabs to find useful resources and answers to
your questions. If you would rather just interact with a human being, we’ve got you covered. Please email raymond.hutchison@dc.gov or call 202-577-6892
to get the information you need. If no one is home, leave a message and we will get back to you ASAP.
DCPS Office of Special Education
Works with schools to ensure that students with disabilities have the services and support they need to achieve success.
DCPS Student Guide to Graduation, College, and Career
In the guide, students and their families receive clear, personalized information about the steps they need to take to earn a diploma and pursue college and career opportunities aligned with their skills and interests. Each student’s guide is customized to their course progress, college and career interests, and post-secondary goals. DCPS Transition Central is a tool for DCPS staff to access and provide information. They encourage all transition related staff to subscribe to Transition Central. Once you have subscribed you will receive all updates automatically. They also encourage staff to comment on all Transition Central pages and would love to hear from you! Disability.gov connects people with disabilities, their families, and the organizations that support them to important information about:
District of Columbia Association for Special Education (DCASE)
DCASE is a member nonprofit organization composed of nonpublic and charter schools that serve DC students in need of special education services.
District of Columbia College Access Program (DC CAP)
DC-CAP can help you see that there is a way for you to get a college education. DC-CAP helps teens and young adults: Find the appropriate college based on their individual needs; Assist with the college application process; Help secure financial aid; and Continue to provide counseling and financial aid assistance to students for up to five years of college.
Educational Opportunity Center
EOC provides FREE services to encourage and assist adults and high school students interested in continuing their education.
ERIC Clearinghouse on Disabilities and Gifted Education (ERIC EC), The Council for Exceptional Children
This site has an information sheet titled, “Selecting A College for Students with Learning Disabilities or Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder,” which is helpful as an overview to transition planning from high school to college.
Family Health Reference to ASL This webpage provides a definition and explanation of American Sign Language coupled with a brief overview and links to resources for the following topics:
Family Services, Inc.
Provides services to foster health and well-being in the home, school, and community, including early childhood services, family support services, parental education services, and counseling and therapy services. Serves the residents of Montgomery County, MD.
Federal Student Aid Videos & Infographics Description from this resource's website: Federal Student Aid has produced a number of videos about financial aid and infographics about financial aid. We are considering topics to add in the future. If you’d like to request one or more topics for videos or infographics, you are welcome to submit them to ask.aidawareness@ed.gov. NOTE: The ask.aidawareness e-mail address is for your feedback on this topic or for your questions about our products and services for you, the counselor or mentor. If you or your students have questions about financial aid, please send them to studentaid@ed.gov. Thank you.
The IDEA and FERPA Confidentiality Provisions Crosswalk is a side-by-side comparison of the legal provisions and definitions in IDEA Part B, IDEA Part C, and FERPA that relate to protecting the confidentiality of personally identifiable information of students and children served under IDEA.
Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), U.S. Department of Education
There are a number of federal loan, grant and work-study programs that you may be eligible for. To apply, complete and return a FAFSA to the U.S. Department of Education or through your guidance counselor, the Greater Washington College Info Center (see below), or any college financial aid office.
Gallaudet University, Office for Students with Disabilities
The Office for Students with Disabilities (OSWD) provides individually tailored, comprehensive, support services and programs for students with disabilities. OSWD empowers eligible students to succeed in their pursuit of higher education by striving to assure equal access and opportunity to curricular and extra-curricular activities. Supporting the ideal of life-long learning, OSWD encourages and provides experiences and opportunities to build confidence beyond the classroom. Student autonomy is encouraged through the provision of reasonable accommodations, academic support groups, self-advocacy, and compensatory training. OSWD employs a student-centered interactive model in which collaboration among professionals and OSWD students results in a nondiscriminatory academic environment. In addition, OSWD provides professional development services and programs for faculty and staff and for community-based professionals.
GED Testing Center Office
The GED Testing Center only administers the examination and the practice examination. Should you wish to enroll in an instructional or preparatory program a service called the Literacy Hotline and be reached by telephone. The number for the Hotline is (202)727-2431. A counselor at that telephone number will assist you in finding an appropriate preparatory program. After surveying the programs you may the register at the one of your choice.
George Mason University, Office of Disability Support
The Office of Disability Services at George Mason University offers a variety of services for students with documented disabilities, including learning disabilities, deaf/hard of hearing, blind/low vision, mobility limitations, attention deficit disorders (ADD/ ADHD), psychiatric disorders, and medical disabilities. We encourage both prospective and current students to learn more about our services by going to our web site at and/or calling our office to make an appointment with an ODS coordinator.
George Washington University Office of Military and Veteran Student Services
The Office of Military and Veteran Student Services is here to help students who are using military education benefits understand how their benefits work towards funding their education. We process financial transactions between The George Washington University and the Department of Veteran Affairs. Our office can also help students in their transition from combat to college and help students them find resources that are specifically designed for members of the military and their dependent. Our main focus is on the financial aspect of our students’ education, however we also host a series of programmatic events throughout the year to create awareness about the student veteran population on campus while also bringing together veterans and civilians. We support a strong community of student veterans and their families here on campus. In terms of student support services, our office is able to ensure that students make a smooth transition from combat to college. This role includes anything from referring our students to a counselor at the University Counseling Center to communicating directly with a student’s professor if that student, for example, is having issues with completing assignments due to military-related factors (deployment, PTSD, stress).
George Washington University, Disability Support Services
The George Washington University believes in the equality of people, the value of individual differences, and the unending possibilities for growth and the development of the human spirit. With that philosophy, the University established Disability Support Services (DSS) in 1978 to support students with disabilities so that they may participate fully in university life, derive the greatest benefit from their educational experiences, and achieve maximum personal success. DSS currently serves over 700 GW students with a wide variety of disabilities, as well as those temporarily disabled by injury or illness.
Georgetown University, Academic Resource Center
Georgetown University is committed to providing academic support for all students and to integrating students with disabilities as fully as possible into all aspects of University life. The Academic Resource Center fulfills this mission by providing assistance in study skills necessary for academic achievement through individual consultations or workshops; accommodations to students with disabilities under the ADA and Section 504; facilities and support services to help ensure access for students with disabilities.
The Greater Washington College Info Center, MLK Jr. Memorial Library, 1st Floor
The College Info Center has a number of resources, including computers you can use, college information guides, and a series of education and career workshops, including “Research, Apply, Review: College Admissions 101” and “Finding the Right Resources: The College Search for Students with Learning Disabilities.” All resources and workshops are FREE.
A Guide to the Individualized Education Program The purpose of this guidance is to assist educators, parents, and state and local educational agencies in implementing the requirements of Part B of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) regarding Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) for children with disabilities, including preschool-aged children. (This guide does not address the development of Individualized Family Service Plans (IFSP) for infants and toddlers.) This guide was developed by the U.S. Department of Education, with the assistance of the National Information Center for Children and Youth with Disabilities (NICHCY). The Department staff contributing to this guide include: Debra Price-Ellingstad, JoLeta Reynolds, Larry Ringer, Ruth Ryder, and Suzanne Sheridan, under the direction of Judith E. Heumann, Kenneth Warlick, and Curtis Richards.
Additional copies of this guide are available from:
(877) 4-ED-PUBS
To obtain this publication in an alternate format (braille, large print, audio cassette, or disk), please contact Katie Mincey, Director of the Alternate Format Center, at (202) 260-9895, or via e-mail at Katie_Mincey@ed.gov. A Guide to Visual Disabilities: How Colleges Help Visually Impaired Students Succeed Obtaining a college education is no easy task, but for students with visual disabilities, the path to completing a degree program is lined with unique challenges and barriers. The following guide explores how visual impairments impact the educational experience, what colleges are doing for the visually impaired, and includes numerous resources, as well insight and tips from experts and a list of scholarships and grants.
Hamilton Center
A school of last resort for DC's 85 most learning-challenged students in grades 3-8, implementing a highly positive program of academic, social and behavioral remediation. Students benefit from a huge battery of extracurricular services, including a team of full-time social workers, a nurse, an art therapist, a speech therapist, a team of behavior technicians, a PE coach, a computer lab instructor, and a fine arts specialist.
Health Services for Children with Special Needs, Inc.
Community-based care management network coordinating health, social, and education services for the pediatric Supplemental Security Income (SSI) and SSI- eligible populations of Washington, DC. Provides support through the Therapeutic Recreation Fund to introduce various sports and fitness classes that offer the much-needed physical activity that is lacking in many programs for children and youth with disabilities. Through the Family Circles Program, supports families with children and youth who have disabilities by proving a series of services designed to meet training and education, advocacy, and emotional wellness needs.
HEATH Resource Center
The HEATH Resource Center gathers and provides information about national, post-secondary education supports for individuals with disabilities. The Center:
The HEATH Resource Center is managed by George Washington University's Graduate School of Education and Human Development in partnership with the HSC Foundation and the National Youth Transitions Center. Helping Students with Visual Disabilities: Resources, Tools and Technology to Foster School Success Addressing each need of students with visual impairments and improving overall accessibility are vital to their academic success. This guide explains how colleges are creating more welcoming and inclusive learning environments, with a sharp focus on assistive technology, campus resources that provide assistive services and tools, information about scholarships for students with visual impairments, and online resources they can access to facilitate academic and career success. Established in 2005, The Herb Block Scholarship provides financial assistance to high school graduates, community college students, and adult learners who wish to continue their studies at Washington, D.C. area community colleges. The actual award amount for each recipient is determined in conjunction with the school’s financial aid office and is based on a student’s financial need after all other resources are considered. The award covers tuition, mandatory fees, books, and supplies, as well as limited transportation and on-campus childcare expenses. Scholarship recipients can renew their scholarships for up to five years. Please click here for application details.
High Road Middle Academy of Washington DC
Serves middle school students with learning difficulties. The program is designed to focus on specific academic strengths, as well as needs, of each student. Each student is able to advance at his/her own pace without the pressure to keep up with a general education classroom environment. Small class sizes, one-to-one instruction, individualized instruction, a behavior management system, and a positive learning environment are all hallmarks.
High Road Upper School
Our mission: To build the confidence and competence of children facing learning, language, and social challenges through personalized, academic interventions. To prepare youth to become responsible adults who are able to participate in their communities and lead self-fulfilling lives. To provide leadership and serve as a role model for improving the education of all students. We are committed to maximizing our impact on the nation’s most challenging student populations, with a particular focus on those who have experienced little or no success in the traditional school setting. Our transitional services program enables students to apply academic skills in a “real- world” context in order to gain an understanding of the economic forces in society. This school to work programming emphasizes student preparation for productive employment after graduation. We offer an array of transitional services designed to help the student explore his or her interests and build upon natural talents. As the student matures, we gradually encourage him or her to become more self-reliant. Our transitional services aid in this process by giving the students just the right amount of independence and interaction with the wider community, while still providing the supports necessary for the student to feel secure and confident.
Homeschooling a Struggling Learner: Special Education Provisions in the 50 States and Territories This webpage provides a summary of which states may offer special education funding to students who are homeschooled.
Howard University, Special Student Services
All students attending the Howard University with a documented disabilities are eligible and encouraged to register for services.
IDEA Results Driven Accountability Graphics With these color-coded maps from the U.S. Department of Education, you can tell at a glance whether your State is meeting IDEA-related requirements for Part C (early childhood) and Part B (school age). There's a lot more to explore here as well, including a description of how the Department made the 2014 State determinations and the role that its new results-driven accountability approach (RDA) played in the analyses. IEP Meeting Checklist for Parents Statewide Parent Advocacy Network’s (SPAN’S) IEP Meeting Checklist for Parents provides an outline of how to prepare and what to expect at the IEP meeting. You may wish to review this checklist prior to starting your IEP meeting; you may wish to send a copy to your team prior to the meeting so they can use it to prepare. As you go through your IEP meeting, check to make sure that each of the issues on the checklist is addressed by your team. If it is not addressed, ask your team to discuss it. The IEP Team Process: A Framework for Success This five-part video series addresses the following topics:
Created and produced by ECAC, the Exceptional Children's Assistance Center, NC's Parent Training and Information Center. The Indiana Secondary Transition Resource Center Family-Centered Search Tool The Indiana Secondary Transition Resource Center hosts and links to numerous resources relevant to families across the country at its website. The family-centered search feature allows users to filter resources by topic, format, audience, and grade.
Institute for Educational Leadership
IEL builds the capacity of individuals, organizations, systems and communities to work together to prepare all children and youth for post-secondary education, careers, and citizenship.
The Ivymount School
A nonsectarian, nonpublic special education day school whose integrated approach to learning includes educational programs and therapeutic services for over 200 students, ages 4–21, whose disabilities include developmental delays, speech/language deficits, learning disabilities, health impairments, and autism/PDD.
Job Corps
Job Corps is a free education and training program that helps young people learn a career, earn a high school diploma or GED, and find and keep a good job. For eligible youth at least 16 years of age, Job Corps provides the all-around skills needed to succeed in a career and in life.
Judy Hoyer Family Learning Center
A place where community-based agencies and organizations collaborate under one roof to serve children and their families within or near a school in an integrated approach that promotes school readiness through early childhood care and education as well as family support and health programs.
Katherine Thomas School (The Treatment and Learning Centers, Inc.)
High school program using a multisensory, developmental, and language-intensive curriculum tailored to students in grades 9-12, with language and learning disabilities and/or high-functioning autism.
The Kingsbury Center
Kingsbury Day School is an independent K-12 full-time special education school serving the needs of learning disabled students with average to above average cognitive abilities. KDS is an accredited school serving both publicly and privately funded students, and students who graduate earn a high school diploma.
Lab School of Washington Main Campus
The Lab School of Washington®, founded in 1967 by Sally L. Smith, is an innovative, rigorous, arts-based program for intelligent students with moderate to severe learning disabilities.
Latin American Youth Center
LAYC provides multi-lingual, culturally sensitive programs in the following areas:
Literacy Helpline
Provides information on GED and literacy resources in DC.
M&L Special Needs Resources Webpage
At M&L Special Needs Planning, we feel that access to the right information is the key to planning a successful future. In keeping with our goal to keep you informed, and to provide you with the tools to enable you to plan a happy and successful future for your family, we have compiled a list of special needs resources.
Mamie D. Lee School
Mamie D. Lee School is a citywide special education school which provides an appropriate educational program for students who require non-general education placements. Our students range between the ages of 6 and 22. The elementary and intermediate age students are participants in the Fillmore Arts Program. The school is also actively involved in the DC Special Olympics program through which the students participate in bowling, golf and track & field activities. The Mamie D. Lee School has been in continuous operation since its opening in September 1971. Named after native Washingtonian Mrs. Mamie Dixon Lee, an activist and advocate for individuals with mental retardation and associated disabilities, the school has been at the forefront in preparing students with MR to be productive members of society. Instruction for all students is driven by the DCPS standards, the mandates of IDEIA 2004, the provisions of NCLB and the rubrics of best practices that form the core of instruction for students with mental retardation.
Martin Luther King Memorial Library Center for Accessibility (formerly Adaptive Services)
The Adaptive Services Division offers services to children, youth and adults of all abilities. DC Regional Library for the Blind and Physically Handicapped serves eligible blind, visually impaired, deaf-blind, reading-disabled, and those with physical disabilities which prevent them from reading or holding normal printed materials. Service is by mail, free of cost to the library customer. Materials include Braille, print/Braille, downloadable WebBraille and human-voice audio formats. Through the BARD (Braille and Audio Reading Download) service, Talking Books and magazines are available. Programs include monthly Talking Book Club for adults, Braille Book Club for Kids grades 1-6, and other programs. Library Services for the Deaf Community offers free public American Sign Language classes and deaf culture programs and book talks. The Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial Library has public videophone service for the deaf.
The Mason LIFE Program is an innovative post-secondary program for young adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities who desire a university experience in a supportive academic environment. The mission of the Mason LIFE Program is a dual purpose. The first is to provide a supportive academic environment for our students with intellectual and developmental disabilities. The second is to supply an apprenticeship for George Mason University students..
Mayor's Youth Leadership Institute
The Mayor's Youth Leadership Institute (MYLI) was founded in 1979 as a year-round program to train DC youth in the concepts of leadership
and self-development. The MYLI training model emphasizes practical, hands-on experience and a holistic approach to developing leaders for the 21st century.
Each year, 250 young people participate in the year-round program and 500 youth participate in the Summer Training Program. Thousands of DC youth have received leadership training to date.
MDRC
MDRC is committed to finding solutions to some of the most difficult problems facing the nation — from reducing poverty and bolstering economic self-sufficiency to improving public education and college graduation rates. We design promising new interventions, evaluate existing programs using the highest research standards, and provide technical assistance to build better programs and deliver effective interventions at scale. We work as an intermediary, bringing together public and private funders to test new policy-relevant ideas, and communicate what we learn to policymakers and practitioners — all with the goal of improving the lives of low-income individuals, families, and children. Measurement Practice Guide: College & Career Readiness & Success Center This discussion guide is part of a larger practice guide designed to help state education agencies (SEAs) define measurement goals, select college and career readiness measures and indicators designed to support those goals, and use the data gathered with those measures and indicators to make informed decisions about college and career readiness policies, programs, and interventions. The chapter 1 discussion guide focuses on setting the stage for the rest of the guide by defining the measurement landscape and exploring the SEA role in measurement goals related to college and career readiness and success.
Medtech
We bring our Medtech College tradition of excellence in advancing healthcare education to students in Virginia and Maryland at our technical school in Washington
D.C., formerly known as Sanz College.
Sanz College, a DMV area technical school, began as a foreign language school in 1939. Since their beginning, Sanz College has been recognized for their
outstanding programs in English as a Second Language. We’re excited to bring Sanz College’s expertise in language education to our students who are looking
to improve their English skills. Sanz College in the District of Columbia is a perfect addition to Medtech’s family and our belief in being experts in
our field, from English language training to medical career training, such as medical assisting, medical office training, phlebotomy and medical billing
and coding.
At our Washington, D.C., metro campus, you’ll find what we’re known for – an academic community focused on exceptional medical training with a personalized,
hands-on approach. Through our medical training in Washington, D.C., our experts will give you the guidance, passion and knowledge to find success in your
future career. At our technical school in Washington D.C., we offer ESL, medical billing and coding, medical office specialist, phlebotomy, and medical
assistant training to prepare you for an extraordinary career in healthcare.
Mind Expansion Community Services, Inc. (MCES)
MCES informs the community about hidden disabilities, including autism, epilepsy and sensory integration disorders, and brings together children with and without disabilities together in an educational, fun and safe environment.
Model Secondary School for the Deaf
Today, MSSD provides a tuition-free comprehensive day and residential four-year high school program for deaf and hard of hearing students from the United States and its territories. MSSD students are expected to graduate ready for the challenges of adult life. It is our goal to provide students with an academically rigorous program so they will become self-directed, independent, resourceful learners who demonstrate essential knowledge, literacy, and the social and communication skills necessary to be effective, productive, and contributing members of society.
Monroe School
The Monroe School is a private day school committed to fostering academic excellence in students challenged by language-based learning difficulties. Our program is designed to assist high school students with mild to moderate learning needs who are experiencing inconsistencies between their academic achievement and intellectual abilities in one or more academic areas, such as reading, writing, oral expression, or math. The Monroe School provides its students with a diploma-based, college preparatory program with courses, activities, and technical skills that will prepare them for transition to college or the work world. The school promotes an alliance among students, parents, faculty, and community organizations to produce self-sufficient, life long learners.**The Monroe School has its Certificate of Approval from the District of Columbia State Education Agency, to serve students with specific learning disabilities and ADHD.
Montgomery College, Developmental Education and Workforce Access Program (includes Challenge Program)
This is a custom-tailored learning community program for students with special needs exiting high school. GTP is a two-year, tuition-based, credit-free certificate program. The overall objective is to enable students to transition to greater independent living through functional education, residential, vocational, and life-skills services. The Challenge Program provides unique courses for adults with developmental disabilities to help them function more independently in their homes, at work, and in the community. Of equal importance, students will have the opportunity to increase their social and community awareness by learning at Montgomery College.
Montgomery College, Disability Support Services
Disability Support Services (DSS) is dedicated to assisting students with disabilities accomplish their personal, scholastic and career goals. We do this by teaching academic and advocacy skills; eliminating the physical, technical and attitudinal barriers that limit opportunities; and promoting an awareness of the experience of persons with disabilities within social, political, and economic constructs.
National Center for Learning Disabilities: 14 Innovative Apps for Learning
This NCLD article provides information about 14 different educationally focused assistive technology tools designed to:
National Child Research Center
Provides a collaborative approach to preschool education in an environment that nurtures the whole child, fosters partnerships with families, and is committed to the inclusion of children with disabilities.
National Veterans Center (NVC)
Powered by Student Veterans of America and in conjunction with The HSC Foundation, the National Veterans Center’s (NVC) mission is to empower military veterans to reach their full potential. This partnership between non-profit organizations accomplishes its mission by acting as a central conduit that pairs service providers from the public and private sector with veterans and military families seeking resources. The NVC serves as America’s laboratory for developing, testing, and digitally delivering new solutions to veterans in order to assist them with overcoming disability, completing their education, finding meaningful employment, and thriving in their communities.
National Youth Leadership Network (NYLN)
The NYLN:
Native American Parent Technical Assistance Center (NAPTAC)
NAPTAC is a project within Education for Parents of Indian Children with Special Needs (EPICS) to provide training and technical assistance to Parent Training Information Centers (PTI’s) and Community Parent Resource Centers (CPRC’s) nationwide on providing effective, culturally responsive services to Native American families of children with disabilities, as well as youth with disabilities. The NAPTAC will also provide differentiated, targeted and intensive technical assistance to parent centers requesting additional support to build their capacity to provide services to Native American parents of children with disabilities, as well as youth with disabilities. The staff and consultants of the NAPTAC are experienced professionals who are ready to provide each Parent Center with high quality services and supports. A Technical Assistance Specialist will be assigned a region as organized by the Regional Parent Technical Assistance Centers (RPTACs). EPICS is a non-profit entity providing training, advocacy and supports to families of Native American children with disabilities and special healthcare needs. EPICS houses the Community Parent Resource Center (CPRC) and the NAPTAC.
New Futures Career Navigator
Users of the online, interactive Career Navigator tool can take a career assessment to determine career paths that best fit them. They learn about each career including job outlook, pay potential, and the amount of education or training required. The Career Navigator connects students to local educational institutions where they can obtain the related post-secondary education. Additional resources are provided to further empower youth and young adults to make informed decisions about their careers. Real-life success stories of New Futures Alumni are also shared.
New View, LLC
New View, LLC establishes relationships with children, young adults, adults, and their families and/or educational support team to determine relevant, individualized, and client-centered recommendations related to education, work, self-care, and leisure. We provide quality therapeutic services across the lifespan to create meaningful life experiences that help to improve independence and confidence in education, work, self-care, and leisure activities. We provide occupational therapy treatment and evaluation in addition to vocational, career guidance, and assessment.
Options PCS
Options Public Charter School (PCS) provides a nurturing environment where children LOVE to learn! Our award-winning program builds essential student skills, increases reading and math ability, and improves test scores. Our 5:1 student to adult ratio, state-of-the-art computer technology, therapeutic Special Education program, Vocational Program that offers culinary arts, cosmetology, and JROTC, and outstanding athletics are just a few of the reasons why Options PCS is an exceptional education for exceptional students!
OSSE
Sets statewide policies, provides resources and support, and exercises accountability for ALL public education in DC.
Paralegal Institute of Washington, DC
Welcome to the Paralegal Institute of Washington, DC (PIW). PIW is a licensed higher-education learning center, committed to training paralegals.
Parent Educational Advocacy Training Center
Virginia’s parent education, support, training, and information center committed to helping children with disabilities, their families, and the professionals who serve them by offering services and support for families and professionals; experienced-based program development and training curriculum; and easy-to-understand, research-based disability education, information, training and support.
Parent to Parent of Miami's Online IEP Training Series (Disponible en español) Parent to Parent of Miami (Florida's CPRC serving Miami, Dade, and Monroe counties) has an online training series about the IEP in three languages. You must be a registered user to access these trainings, but it's easy and it's free. Use the sessions to train new staff or help families learn about the IEP process.
Project ASCEND
Project ASCEND is a college scholarship program and youth civic engagement nonprofit organization. Project ASCEND was founded in 2011; our mission is to create higher education opportunities for youth living in Washington, D.C. Project SEARCH is dedicated to providing education and training to young adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities through an innovative workforce
and career development model that benefits the individual, workplace, and community. Our primary goal is to secure competitive employment outcomes for
each of our student graduates
Prospect Learning Center
Prospect Learning Center is a student-centered, full-time, comprehensive special education school established in 1979. The program provides a supportive and nurturing learning environment designed to assist learning disabled students in academic development by improving organizational and study habits, self-esteem, self-confidence, and social skills-all the keys needed to help our students become successful.
Quality Trust for Individuals with Disabilities
Quality Trust for Individuals with Disabilities is an advocacy organization that is an independent catalyst for change in the lives of people of all ages with developmental disabilities. Quality Trust advocates, monitors, provides legal education, training, and family navigation to residents of the District of Columbia.
RCM of Washington
We strive to support each person in a positive and nurturing environment, which integrates all aspects of living, working, and learning, and acknowledges
their place as a valued and viable member of the community.
RCM has developed an innovative and creative approach to working with people with Intellectual Disabilities through self-determined choices and experiences
tailored to individual dreams, desires, and needs. We promote opportunities for building relationships and integrating into the community.
Reach4Success
REACH4SUCCESS is a multi-dimensional college access program that connects students of all ages with opportunities in higher education. Through information
and advising services, postsecondary encouragement programs, and outreach activities, our programs emphasize the critical link between higher education
and future success. All of our services are free.
The River School
Founded in 1999, The River School is proud to provide educational experiences for children and their families by uniting the best practices of early childhood education and oral deaf education, while promoting clinical research and training in child language and literacy. Ages 5-12.
Riverview School
Riverview School, an independent coeducational boarding/day school, provides a caring community for adolescents and young adults with complex language, learning and cognitive disabilities. The School is committed to developing student competence and confidence in academic, social and independent living skills.
Rock Creek Academy
Welcome to Rock Creek Academy, where we offer full time permanent and interim special education services to students ages 5-22 with a variety of disabilities. Located in Washington, DC, Rock Creek Academy provides an interactive, academically focused, and therapeutic environment that recognizes the daily challenges of students who require alternatives to traditional education. This is achieved through: low student teacher ratios; the implementation of sound meaningful instruction, and intensive therapeutic/behavioral interventions and supports. VISION STATEMENT: Rock Creek Academy will be viewed by the educational community as a multi-component program for students with learning and emotional disabilities. It will become the premier choice for educational programs designed to serve special needs students.
School for Arts and Learning PCS - Sail
The School for ARTs in Learning (SAIL), founded in 1998, is a Kindergarten through 8th grade public charter school providing multiple creative environments, opportunities, and experiences for all children through arts-infused academic programs. SAIL works to address the needs of students with learning differences by providing creative learning environments. We have developed a specialized curriculum using the arts to help children learn in ways that match their learning styles. Our focus is on developing the whole child intellectually, emotionally, physically, and socially. SAIL is a community of learners and educators who promote Safety, positive Attitude, Intelligent choices, and Leadership – SAIL to Success!
SchoolTalk, Inc
Works with parents, schools, and the school system to improve communication and dispute resolution processes that are associated with the delivery of special education services. SchoolTalk works to develop models that can be replicated in school systems nationwide. Partnership: Creation of an online clearinghouse of resources related to secondary transition for youth with disabilities in the District of Columbia metropolitan area.
Seeds of Tomorrow
A transitional school that offers academic remediation, life skills classes, and a summer program. . Job coaches, therapists, and teachers are available to work on social skills in the workplace and to supervise job experiences for resume building.
SeeForever Foundation/Maya Angelou Public Charter School
Creates learning communities in lower-income urban areas where all students, particularly those who have not succeeded in traditional schools, can reach their potential and prepare for college, career, and a lifetime of success.
ServiceSource
ServiceSource is a leading nonprofit disability resource organization with regional offices and programs located in nine states and the District of Columbia. We serve more than 15,700 individuals with disabilities annually through a range of innovative and valued employment, training, rehabilitation, housing and other support services. ServiceSource directly employs more than 1,500 individuals on government and commercial affirmative employment contracts, making us one of the largest employers of people with disabilities nationwide. Whether you are an individual with a disability, a government contracting officer or a local business owner, ServiceSource is committed to meeting or exceeding your needs and expectations.
Sharpe Health School
A DC day school that provides services to students in wheelchairs with cognitive deficits who have complicated medical needs.
The Short-and-Sweet IEP Overview (Disponible en español) This overview is a great place for newcomers to begin understanding what a vital document the IEP is - its big picture and purpose, what information it contains, and who develops it. Parents can use the links throughout to go directly to more detailed explanations of each part of the IEP and each team member's role in the writing and implementing the IEP. Also available in Spanish.
Smithsonian Accessibility Program
The Accessibility Program supports the Smithsonian in making all visitors feel welcome by providing consistent, effortless access to the Institution’s programs, collections and facilities. Responsibilities include:
Programs include:
Smithsonian Institution’s Center for Education and Museum Studies
The center assists the world’s largest museum complex and research organization in acquiring and strengthening its understandings and practices of the field that encompasses the ideas and issues involved in the museum profession—from the practical, day-to-day skills needed to operate a museum to theories on the societal role of museums. Sponsors “Access to Opportunities” Internship Program for people with disabilities.
Special Ed COOP
Charter school leaders created the cooperative because implementing special education services can be a challenge. Our member schools want to get it right‚ from compliance to parent engagement to innovative practice. Through guidance, information, and resources, our schools get what they need to build and maintain high-quality special education programs. With the cooperative, there is power in numbers, value in a common vision, and results through cooperation. TOOLS: The cooperative is a trusted source for information about special education in DC. Member schools can access our weekly newsletter, discussion groups, blog, helpline, and collection of links to state and federal policies, national, and local resources on disabilities, and best instructional practices and online tools. ADVOCACY: The cooperative helps to ensure the voices of the member schools are heard and their issues are addressed at the state level.
Special Factors in IEP Development IDEA lists five special factors that the IEP team must consider in the development, review, and revision of each child's IEP. Those factors are: behavior, limited English proficiency, blindness or visual impairment, communication needs/deafness, and assistive technology. Does the child have one or more of these special factors to be considered---and addressed in the IEP?
St. Coletta
Public charter school that serves children up to age 22 with cognitive disabilites (autism, mental retardation, multiple disabilites) and their families. Partnership: Support to distribute goods and services to transitioning youth through the LEAP Award program.
Standards-Based Individualized Education Program Examples This National Association of State Directors of Special Education (NASDSE) document presents a seven-step process to be used in developing a standards-based IEP. Each step is followed by guiding questions for the IEP team to consider in making data-based decisions. Two student examples are provided to illustrate application of the components of a standards-based IEP.
Student Veterans of America
Student Veterans of America envisions a nation where all student veterans succeed in post-secondary programs and contribute to civilian society in meaningful ways. SVA provides the resources and support to do so through five major initiatives. We maintain a commitment to Support Chapters through leadership training, grants, and networking opportunities that facilitate the development of successful student-run organizations. An essential component of chapter work is advocating for supportive campus services and programs. At the national level, SVA’s Advocacy efforts ensure policies are not only supportive for veterans in their transition to school and employment, but also for the entire military community. To best serve this large community, SVA Develops Partnerships with other organizations to provide scholarships, mentorships, employment, and benefits counseling. Yet, our support doesn’t end at graduation. Student Veterans of America is developing a networking program that will Connect Alumni veterans with even more professional opportunities. These initiatives are designed to bring veterans closer to their degrees, yet little data exists on student veterans' academic performance. By Investing in Research, SVA hopes to fill that void and showcase student veteran success. Students for Disability Awareness, Western Washington University Washington, DC For youth who might want to attend college
The Summit School
A school for bright students with dyslexia and other learning differences. Educates children with unique learning styles to their full potential. Supports full scholarships to the Summit Outreach Camp for children from the African-American community in Anne Arundel County whose academic needs are underserved.
Teaching Students with Special Needs This article provides tips, strategies, and resources for teaching students with special needs.
Technical Learning Centers
TLC offers its services by utilizing professional staff who are experienced in their field of expertise. We work with our clients to help them achieve their
objectives with the application of new and proven technologies. Our philosophy is to offer our customers the best service possible with highest quality
and lowest cost of ownership, on time and on budget.
Telecommunicating and Accessibility Issues for the Deaf This webpage offers a series of educative articles, compiled by Five 9 Call Center Software, on hearing impairment and accessibility issues. These articles provide specific information about:
This webpage also offers informative resources related to hearing impairment. These resources include:
TransCen, Inc.
Organization dedicated to improving educational and employment outcomes for people with disabilities by developing, implementing, and researching innovative practices regarding school-to-adult life transition, career and workforce development, and inclusive community participation.
Transition Academy at Shadd
The Treatment and Learning Centers, Inc.
Works to improve lives and expand possibilities for individuals with special needs, specializing in services for children and adults with learning disabilities, helping them reach their full potential. Supports the Family Circles program, designed to support families with children and youth who have disabilities by providing a series of services designed to meet training and education, advocacy and emotional wellness needs.
Trinity DC, Disability Student Services
If you are a student with a psychological, cognitive, and/or physical disability, Disability Student Services (DSS) is here to ensure that you receive support services that will equalize your access for your courses and campus activities. In contrast to high school, where students with disabilities are entitled to certain services, in college, you must become approved or eligible for services based on the guidelines set forth by your college/university (Read "Disability in Higher Education"). At Trinity, this means that you must first register with DSS before you can request support services.
UDC-DCSL
UDC School of Law students and faculty supervisors in the Juvenile and Special Education Law Clinic represent children and parents (or guardians) primarily in special education matters. Over the past sixteen years, the clinic faculty pioneered and developed a nationally-acclaimed approach to addressing the problems of delinquency by supplementing traditional delinquency representation with, where appropriate, advocacy to address the special education needs of the children who are the subject of those delinquency proceedings.
University of Maryland College Park, Disability Support Services
The mission of the Disablility Support Service is to coordinate services that ensure individuals with disabilities equal access to University of Maryland College Park programs.
University of the District of Columbia, Disability Resource Center
The University of the District of Columbia (UDC) is an urban land grant institution. UDC is a comprehensive public institution offering affordable post-secondary degrees at the associates, baccalaureate, and graduate levels. The Disability Supports Services Offices provides accommodations and assistance to students with documented disabilities. It is the student’s responsibility to request accommodations. Students will also need to provide recent documentation of their disability and recent testing and evaluations of their disability.
VCare, LLC
VCare, LLC provides professional and in-home developmental disability training and consulting services in the following areas:
A Wider Circle
A Wider Circle assists individuals and families in transition by providing:
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