It’s that time of year again! All children, including those with disabilities, are preparing to head back to school. We have created a short list of organizations that touch the many aspects of the lives and needs of parents of children with disabilities. The list includes organizations that will help parents navigate the special education system, explore opportunities, gain knowledge, and develop new skills.
The Office of Specialized Services at the School District of Philadelphia
The School District of Philadelphia provides an extensive range of educational services and supports for students with special needs within Philadelphia schools. These services include: learning support, emotional support, autistic support, life skills support, and multiple disabilities support. Speech/language therapy, occupational therapy, physical therapy, hearing support, vision therapy, and transition services are also provided to eligible students requiring these services due to an educational need. Supplementary aids and services to support students’ education needs such as communication devices, assistive technology, and pre-vocational opportunities are available.
The Office of Specialized Services works collaboratively with the Office of Academic Supports and other School District departments to support the appropriate implementation of instructional programs for students with disabilities.
For more information, contact: Joanne Eggleston, Parent Coordinator
Address: 440 North Broad Street, Philadelphia, PA 19130
Phone: 215-400-4170
Email: jeggleston@philasd.org
Special Education ConsultLine
ConsultLine is an informational service that provides answers to questions about special education programs for children. ConsultLine provides information about the law, compliance, and regulations regarding special education programs.
Toll free phone number: 1-800-879-2301
ARC of Philadelphia
The ARC is dedicated to promoting and protecting the human rights of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. The organization also actively supports full inclusion and participation in the classroom, as well as in the community, for people with disabilities.
Address: 2350 West Westmoreland Street, Philadelphia, PA 19140
Phone : 215-229-4550
Family Resource Center on Disabilities
The Family Resource Center on Disabilities is a coalition of parent and professional organizations that educates and trains parents and professionals on special education rights. The Resource Center responds to email and telephone requests for assistance, information, training, and support services from all over the country—including Philadelphia.
Address: 11 East Adams Street, Chicago, IL 60603
Phone Number: 312-939-3513
Email: frcdptiil@ameritech.net
Do you think an organization should be added to the list? Please contact Claudia Tasco at Claudia.Tasco@Phila.gov or 215-686-2798.
