Dear Supporter, Spring has sprung, and we are delighted to announce our own fresh offering: the 7th edition of Special Education: A Guide for Parents! Just as this season represents renewal, the newly updated guide reflects our ongoing commitment to ensuring Oregon families have the tools they need to effectively navigate the special education system. |
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Why This Guide Matters At Disability Rights Oregon, we envision a future where people with disabilities experience full equality of opportunity and complete participation in society. We know access to education is key to making this goal reality, so this new guide empowers families with essential knowledge about: - How to advocate for the free and appropriate education (FAPE) that children and youth are legally entitled to under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA).
- Nuances of an individualized education plan (IEP).
- Ways to be an effective member of their child's education team.
- Fundamental rights to education, steps to resolve disputes when issues arise, and much more.
Download updated parent resources today > |
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A Resource for Every Stage Parent participation remains crucial throughout a child's educational journey—from early intervention programs through the transition into adulthood. This spring, as many families prepare for transitions and new beginnings, we invite you to keep this guide as a reference for any questions that arise regarding special education services. You may also want to print it and take a copy with you to meetings. If you need additional resources, please visit us online at droregon.org or connect with our partners, FACT Oregon, at factoregon.org. |
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🗓️ Opportunities & Announcements -
2025 PIP Reception and Benefit: You’re invited to celebrate the first Oregon Partners in Policymaking® Leadership Series graduating class since we relaunched the nationally renowned series! A short program will include graduates sharing what they’ve learned about advocating for fundamental rights and a keynote from Sue Swenson—longtime disability parent advocate and former Executive Director of The Arc who served under three US Presidents in the Department of Education and Department of Health and Human Services. Together, we’ll enjoy community, refreshments, and raffles to set the class of 2026 up for success! - A Watershed Moment: This month marks the anniversary of the 1977 Section 504 sit-ins, when disability activists occupied federal buildings—notably the San Francisco Federal Building for 25 days—demanding regulations to prohibit discrimination in federally funded programs be implemented. Led by champions like Judy Heumann and Ed Roberts, these protesters helped create laws that protect people with disabilities from being treated unfairly and laid groundwork for future legislation including the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). Their legacy reminds us that disability rights were not given—they were fought for and won through collective action. Explore ways you can take action today and stay tuned for more opportunities very soon!
- Planning to Attend a Protest? The First Amendment protects your right to assemble and express your views through protest. But police and other government officials are allowed to place certain narrow restrictions on the exercise of free speech rights. We’ve created a helpful guide that explains your rights and answers frequently asked questions. Download the guide and know your rights before you protest! >
- Recreation Resource Fair: Everyone has a right to enjoy our state's vast recreational outlets—including people with disabilities. Join your peers and get connected with 20 local organizations while learning about adaptive recreation opportunities!
- Date: Saturday, May 10, 2025
- Time: 12:00 PM – 3:00 PM
- Location: East Portland Community Center, 740 SE 106th Avenue, Portland
- Questions? Contact Jane Doyle at 503-307-4131 or jane.doyle@portlandoregon.gov
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🗞️ In the News Our staff are interviewed in several recent news stories. Click on the links below to read the articles: |
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