State Special Education Resources

Connecticut Special Education Resources for Families

Navigating special education can feel overwhelming, but you're not alone. The Connecticut State Department of Education (CSDE) provides a range of authoritative guides, forms, and supports to help you understand your rights, the special education process, and how to advocate for your child. 

Here's a curated summary of key resources:

Where to Find These Resources

Visit the Connecticut SDE Special Education Resources for Families page to access guides, checklists, forms, and more in both English and Spanish. 

For state-funded parent advocacy support, contact the Connecticut Parent Advocacy Center (CPAC) at 1‑800‑445‑2722 or cpac@cpacinc.org

Parent Guides & Manuals

• Parent’s Guide to Special Education in Connecticut (2021, bilingual): Comprehensive overview of IDEA and state regulations, covering referral, evaluation, IEP development, procedural safeguards, dispute resolution, and more.
  
  

• The “IEP Guide – Page by Page”: Breaks down every section of the IEP document, helping you prepare for PPT meetings
  
  

• PPT 101 Guide: Walkthroughs of the PPT process

Essential Forms

• Evaluation Referral, Mediation Request, Hearing Request, State Complaint Form, Advisory Opinion Request—all available in English and Spanish, allowing families to initiate or respond to key processes
  
  

Advocacy & Support

• Connecticut Parent Advocacy Center (CPAC): Offers guidance, training, and support to help parents advocate effectively. Staffed by experienced parents of children with disabilities
  
  
  

How to Use This Page

1. Start with the Parent Guide: The “Parent’s Guide to Special Education in Connecticut” is your go‑to resource for understanding the entire process.
   
   

2. Grab the Right Forms: Need to request an evaluation or file a complaint? Forms are available in both English and Spanish.
   
   

3. Refer Early, Track Deadlines: If you suspect your child has special education needs, submit a written referral. CT law mandates schools complete evaluations within 45 school days
   
   

4. Plan Transition Success: For high school students, explore secondary transition planning tools to set post-graduation goals.
   
   

5. Know Advocacy Channels: Reach out to CPAC or use state-provided dispute resolution tools when disagreements arise.