Resources

Navigating Special Education

Parents can be surprised to learn that a medical diagnosis of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) does not automatically entitle a student to special education services under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA). Eligibility for special education services is based on an educational determination of a disability, which includes meeting not just the criteria for a specific disability (such as Autism), but also finding that a student is in need of special services. Understanding the differences between a medical diagnosis and an educational determination of eligibility for special education services can help parents become better advocates for their children.

Special Education that can be overwhelming to learn what your rights are and what steps you can take if you feel your child’s rights have been violated. It can also be difficult for parents to know if they should seek special education advocacy services or handle a contentious situation themselves. We have compiled a list of helpful resources. If you have additional questions, feel free to contact our Resource Specialists at (951) 220-6922 or info@ieautism.org

teacher and students
family with autistic kids
parents and autistic daughter
kid and adult playing with toy
girl in therapy with teddy bear on lap
student smiling
kid attending home school
student and teacher
teacher and autistic students in the classroom
woman and autistic kid reading a book together
woman and autistic kid drawing together
Kid in math class holding a stack of books and an apple

Autism Society Options Policy

This Resource Guide was developed to provide families and professionals with an opportunity to find resources related to Autism in the Inland Empire in one place. All information provided or published by the Autism Society Inland Empire is for information purposes only. Specific treatment, therapy or services should be provided to an individual only at the direction of the individual’s doctor, caregiver, or other qualified professional. References to any treatment or therapy option, program, service, or treatment provider are not an endorsement by the Autism Society Inland Empire. References of treatments, therapies, programs, services, and/or providers are not intended to be comprehensive statements. You should investigate alternatives that may be more appropriate for a specific individual. The Autism Society Inland Empire assumes no responsibility for the use made of any information published or provided. The Autism Society Inland Empire provides information, but it does not constitute medical or legal information. Referrals provided are suggestions to organizations that might help, but do not constitute a recommendation. The Autism Society Inland Empire cannot be held responsible for consequences that arise from individual dealings with a professional or organization. The inclusion of any organization does not imply endorsement, and omission does not imply disapproval. The Autism Society Inland Empire may add or remove organizations from this list at its discretion.