Our hope is to help each family find and access the services and supports available to them and their child(ren). We are committed to providing timely, credible, reliable, family-friendly information to parents and professionals.
The following resources offer general information, organization tools, financial supports and links to other relevant organizations. Click on a topic below to learn more.

504
Section 504 provides a broad spectrum of protections against discrimination on the basis of disability.
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Accommodations
Accommodations can change how a student accesses information, participates in school activities and demonstrates their learning.
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Advocacy
Effective advocacy means using clear communication, strong collaboration, and a solid understanding of policies and systems.
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Autism
Autism is a spectrum disorder that affects each person differently in how they communicate, interact, and experience the world.
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Assistive Technology
AT is any tool or device that helps a child with a disability increase, maintain, or improve their ability to function and learn.
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Behavior
In special education, behavior refers to actions that may interfere with a student’s learning or the learning of others.
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Communication
Effective communication is key to building strong partnerships with providers and school staff to support a child’s success.
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Dispute Resolution
Families have a variety of informal and formal dispute resolution options available to them.
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Developmental Delay
Developmental delay applies to children in North Carolina aged three through seven.
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Disability and Health Condition Specific Information
Information and resources for a range of disabilities and health conditions to better address individual needs.
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Early Childhood
Learn the signs of your child’s development and act early if you ever have a concern.
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Early Intervention
If your child is not meeting the milestones for his or her age, learn how to help.
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Family Engagement
Empowering families to actively partner with educators and professionals in supporting the learning, development, and success of their children with disabilities.
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General
Fact sheets and general resources for parents and caregivers of children with disabilities and special health care needs.
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Guardianship and Alternatives
Learn about guardianship and a range of supported decision-making options to help young people with disabilities plan for adulthood while preserving their rights and promoting independence.
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Health Care in Schools
Ensuring students with disabilities have access to the health services and supports they need to thrive in school settings.
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Housing / Independent Living
Resources for housing and independent living for people with IDD in North Carolina.
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Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA)
Understand your rights and the services guaranteed under IDEA, the federal law ensuring all children with disabilities receive a free appropriate public education in the least restrictive environment.
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Inclusion
Inclusive practices ensure that children with disabilities participate meaningfully in learning, social, and community activities alongside their peers.
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Individualized Education Program (IEP)
Learn about the IEP process and how it provides a personalized plan of supports, services, and goals to help students with disabilities succeed in school.
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Learning Disability
A Specific Learning Disability (SLD) is a condition that causes unexpected difficulty with certain areas of learning such as reading, writing, math, listening comprehension or oral expression.
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Literacy
Information to help support the development of reading, writing, and communication skills that are essential for academic success and lifelong learning.
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Medicaid and Medicaid Waivers
Providing essential health care, therapies, and long-term support services for children and youth with disabilities, both in the home and community.
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Mental Health
Supports that help individuals understand, manage, and improve their emotional and psychological well-being
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Military
Assisting military families navigate special education services, while managing relocations and unique challenges of military life.
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Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS)
A framework used in schools to provide high-quality instruction, interventions, and supports matched to student needs, promoting academic, behavioral, and social-emotional success for all learners.
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NC DeafBlind Project
The NC DeafBlind Project serves children and young adults with combined hearing and vision loss, promoting access, learning, and independence
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NC School Improvement Project (NCSIP)
Provides professional development, instructional support, and evidence-based practices to educators across the state.
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Parent Rights
Legal rights under special education law to ensure children with a disability receive a free appropriate public education.
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Remote (Virtual) Learning
Monitoring your child’s progress as they access and use technology for learning.
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Residential Treatment/Crisis Intervention Services
Intensive, structured support for children and youth with significant behavioral or mental health challenges.
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Special Education
Provides individualized instruction, supports, and services designed to meet the unique needs of students with disabilities.
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Special Needs Financial Planning and Resources
Preparing for your child's long-term care and independence to support financial security and quality of life.
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Speech and Language
Speech and language disorders affect a child's ability to communicate effectively and may involve difficulties with speaking, understanding, or using language.
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Social and Recreation
Inclusive opportunities for children and youth with disabilities to build friendships, develop skills, and participate fully in community activities that support their overall well-being and quality of life.
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SSI and SSDI
Supplemental Security Income (SSI) and Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) are federal programs that provide financial support to individuals with disabilities, including children and adults.
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Transition to Adulthood
Planning and support to help youth with disabilities move successfully from school to adult life.
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Transitions
Coordinated processes that prepare students with disabilities for key changes in their educational and life journeys.
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Youth
Empowering youth with disabilities to build self-advocacy skills, pursue education and career goals, and actively participate in their communities and future planning.
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Visual Impairment
A range of vision loss conditions that impact a child’s ability to see and learn.
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