Free Resources and Support for IEP Meetings

If you have a son or daughter who has been evaluated for special education, this information is for you. There are a variety of ways for parents and advocates to access support, increase knowledge and gain confidence through the IEP process.    

1. Call the Exceptional Family Resource Center at 619-594-7383 or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. to learn about upcoming IEP workshops, office hours or to schedule a consultation. EFRC can also serve as a “one-stop” source for other resources, whether your child’s diagnosis is new, you have concerns about an upcoming meeting or your adult child is exiting public education. 

2. Access parent support through your school’s special education local plan area (SELPA), which offers trainings, support groups and ways to address IEP concerns. Get connected with your SELPA’s Community Advisory Committee for Special Education to learn from other families and to engage with SELPA leaders. Learning about “the big picture” helps parents acquire vocabulary and understand any team constraints, which builds confidence and efficiency for IEP meetings. 

3. Disability Rights California (DRC) is a great place to obtain self-advocacy resources or call with questions. In certain situations, DRC may be able to represent children at no cost. Call 1-800-776-5746.

4. Attend parent conferences to learn about disability issues and network with other families. One option is to attend the annual Involved Exceptional Parents Day Conference (IEP Day) in San Diego (usually in spring). Scholarships or funding to attend may be available for parents of San Diego Regional Center clients. Learn more at www.IEPday.org.

5. Disability organizations are another source for information and support. Turn to the Epilepsy Foundation for help with a student’s seizure action plan or contact the International Dyslexia Association to learn about available accommodations. Find organizations by entering specific diagnoses in the search bar at www.specialneedsresourcefoundationofsandiego.com/resource-location/san-diego-county.

6. Are you a military family? Education and legal resources are available through your branch’s EFMP Office, as well as School Liaison Officers.

7. Special education attorneys and advocates may offer free initial consultations. In some cases, they may be able to develop creative, accessible fee arrangements. Find local advocates under “advocacy” at www.specialneedsresourcefoundationofsandiego.com/resource-location/san-diego-county.

Moira Allbritton works for the Exceptional Family Resource Center. She lives in San Diego with her family. Email her directly at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. for assistance mentioned in item #1.

For more tips from local experts, read our article “How to Prepare for IEP Meetings” at www.SNRFSD.org.