About Public Agencies and Special Needs Children

Introduction

The agencies described below provide assistance to people with disabilities and their families. Our State Resource Sheets will tell you the names and addresses of these agencies in your state. One of the best resources for finding help for your child with a disability is your local school district (sometimes called Local Education Agency). If your child has already begun school and you think your child needs special services, we suggest that you begin by discussing your concerns with your child's teacher or school principal. If your child is an infant, we suggest that you refer to your State Resource Sheet and contact the office listed for Programs for Children with Disabilities: Ages Birth through 2 Years. If your child is of preschool age, we suggest that you contact the office listed on the State Resource Sheet for Programs for Children with Disabilities: Ages 3 Through 5 Years. Ask for the Child Find Coordinator in your community.

Agencies

State Education Department
The State Department staff can answer questions about special education and related services in your state. Many states have special manuals explaining the steps to take. Check to see if one is available. State Department officials are responsible for special education and related services programs in their state for preschool, elementary, and secondary age children.

State Vocational Rehabilitation Agency
The state vocational rehabilitation agency provides medical, therapeutic, counseling, education, training, and other services needed to prepare people with disabilities for work. This state agency will provide you with the address of the nearest rehabilitation office where you can discuss issues of eligibility and services with a counselor. The state vocational rehabilitation agency can also refer you to an independent living program in your state. Independent living programs provide services which enable adults with disabilities to live productively as members of their communities. The services might include, but are not limited to, information and referral, peer counseling, workshops, attendant care, and technical assistance.

Office of State Coordinator of Vocational Education for Students with Disabilities
States receiving Federal funds used for vocational education must assure that funding is used in programs which include students with disabilities. This office can tell you how your state funds are being used and provide you with information on current programs.

State Mental Retardation/Developmental Disabilities Agencies
The functions of state mental retardation/developmental disabilities agencies vary from state to state. The general purpose of this office is to plan, administer, and develop standards for state/local mental retardation/developmental disabilities programs provided in state-operated facilities and community-based programs. This office provides information about available services to families, consumers, educators, and other professionals.