The daily care for a special needs child can be daunting, before adding schooling into the mix.  Parents face an endless number of decisions relating to the education of their child.  Whether choosing to hire an advocate or a lawyer, or to navigate the system on their own, there are many, complex laws that are designed to work in the favor of children with disabilities.  Laws similar to "No Child Left Behind" were specifically designed to protect all children, however, interpreting and applying these specific laws are another thing entirely.

The good news is there are many resources designed to help direct one through the system. The Department of Education is a great start: http://www.ed.gov/about/contacts/gen/index.html

There are many resources within this department to help gather general information, or specific information about your state or your local district.

One of the best handbooks available today  is Wrightslaw: No Child Left Behind, Peter W. D. Wright (Author), Pamela Darr Wright (Author), Suzanne Whitney Heath (Author).  An all -inclusive roadmap for guidance through the sometimes difficult terrain.

For updated information, check out their blog: 

wrightslaw.com/blog/

Specifically in Boston, the Federation for Children with Special Needs is a wonderful resource, including parental training, parent advocacy, and education reform.

www.fcsn.org