SPECIAL EDUCATION
Early Childhood (0-5 Years)
Maryland Infants and Toddlers Program
By recognizing each family's concerns and priorities and focusing on each child's strengths and needs, the Maryland Infants and Toddlers Program assists families of children with special needs during the first three years of the child's developmental journey. Support, information, and coordinated services in community settings are what families tell us enhance their ability to manage the challenges and celebrate the gifts that each child has to offer. Click here to visit the MSDE website for more information on the Maryland Infants and Toddlers Program.
Preschool Special Education
As families and children leave the early intervention system, the focus on the child's strengths and inclusion in community activities continues. Preschool special education services and other community supports and services for young children and their families assist preschoolers with special needs to develop the skills that will be the foundation for school success. Click here to visit the MSDE website for more information on Preschool Special Education.
K-12
(Coming Soon) Maryland Learning Links is sponsored by the Maryland Department of Education and includes resources for educators and families about issues related to special education in Maryland. This new website also includes interactive discussion boards allowing parents to share information.
Family Support Services
Families often become overwhelmed with the various services and systems available to assist a child with special needs with education and independence. The following family support services are available to assist you in seeking services for your child.
- Family Support Network (0-3 years old)
- Preschool Partners (3-5 years old)
- Partners for Success (3-21 years old)
Click here for more information on Family Support Services.
Dispute Resolution
The Maryland State Department of Education (MSDE), under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), is responsible for ensuring that dispute resolution procedures are available and conducted. This includes complaint investigation to investigate and resolve complaints and due process to track formal mediation requests. Click here for more information on complaint investigation and dispute resolution including a listing of free or low cost assistance for special education disputes.
The Maryland Disability Law Center (MDLC) is a private, non-profit organization staffed by attorneys and paralegals. MDLC is the Protection and Advocacy organization for Maryland. It also publishes a publication titles "Special Education Rights and Wrongs." For more information contact 1-800-233-7201, TTY 410-727-6387 or click here to visit the website of the Maryland Disability Law Center.
