In the 1970s, families in Washington state played a central role in advancing the right to equal access to public education for all students with disabilities with the Education for All Act. Thanks to the work of parent advocates and educators who led the way, all children and youth with disabilities have the right to a Free Appropriate Public Education under the federal Individuals with Disabilities Education Act.
A Free Appropriate Public Education
We support individuals and their families in navigating and accessing a wide range of formal and informal supports in our communities. For children and youth starting at age 3 and up through the school year the student turns 22, this includes supporting access to school.
All children and youth in Washington state have the right to a basic education. For children and youth with disabilities, that includes access to special education and related services designed to meet their unique needs and prepare them for further education, employment and independent living. This is known as the right to a Free Appropriate Public Education.
For more information about how Washington state ensures access to a FAPE for students with disabilities, visit the Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction’s Special Education website.
What Can You Expect from Us?
Supporting our clients’ full and meaningful access to school is part of our work to build inclusive communities. Here are some of the ways we further this mission:
DSHS DDCS
If your child is enrolled in DDCS, their DDCS case manager can help you connect to resources and identify ways our home and community services can align with school services.
Coordinating Services and Collaborating with School Teams
If your child is receiving DDCS, their DDCS case manager may be able to attend IEP meetings as time allows. As a member of the IEP team, they can share knowledge about the student’s strengths, needs and interests. They can share information about DDCS services available in home and community settings.
Preparing for Life After High School
DDCS can support early planning for life after high school.
If you have not already connected with DDCS before your child reaches high school, this is a good time to connect. Click here to find information and support with the DDCS Intake and Eligibility process.
To learn more about supports available to adults during these years, click here.
Visit our Information for Educators page for more information and links to resources on frequently asked questions for educators supporting students with intellectual and developmental disabilities and their families.