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Navigating the Special Education Process
Navigate the CPS special education process with this overview of special education supports and services from identifying difficulties to assessment and qualifying for services to developing a plan and monitoring the progress of your child.
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Special Education Support Starts at Your School
Special education begins in your child's school. Find the name and contact information of your child's case manager for initial information about receiving supports and services.
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Special Education Policies & Procedures
The Office for Students with Disabilities (OSD) issues updated CPS procedures and guidelines for students referred for or currently receiving special education and/or related services. The OSD IDEA Procedural Manual and the OSD 504 Procedural Manual are vital guidances that outline the goals, structures, and practices of Chicago Public School’s approach to special education and our students with disabilities.
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Understanding Parents' Rights in Special Education
Parents of students with disabilities have significant rights within special education, especially under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA). Under the IDEA there our outlined Procedural Safeguards designed to protect the rights of parents and their child with a disability and give families and school systems processes and procedures by which to resolve disputes.
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OSD Parent Support Specialists
OSD Parent Support Specialists are champions for parents and families of students with disabilities. They provide one-on-one support in navigating special education supports and services, including guidance and support before and during IEP meetings, and fostering collaborative relationships with other CPS departments and local community agencies.
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Special Education Trainings & Workshops
The OSD Parent University offers a range of workshops, trainings, and resources for parents and families of CPS students with disabilities. Through virtual monthly no-cost meetings, parents and families are able to learn skills and strategies to help support their child’s success, further their own knowledge, and build community and partnership with OSD and other CPS departments. Each meeting is led by the OSD Parent Support Specialists, in partnership with thought leaders, experts, and advocates from local community and civic organizations and agencies.
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Parent & Family Engagement
Share your voice and make a difference with the OSD Family Advisory Board (FAB). The OSD FAB is a community of dedicated families of students with disabilities working collaboratively to enhance special education support and services at CPS. During monthly 90-minute meetings, the OSD FAB provides space for families and community members to give regular feedback to OSD, CPS staff, community agencies, and ISBE, that help make data-driven decisions that align with the lived experiences of those directly impacted by their services.
SCHOOL SUPPORT Special Education Support at Your School
Find special education supports and services at your school. Enter the name of your child's school to find the contact information of staff and administrators who can help you navigate special education at CPS.