This publication was developed to help parents understand their rights and responsibilities, their child's rights, and the school's responsibilities to meet the special needs of their child. The guide includes a description of the special education process and what is required of you and the school during each step of that process.

REACH provides special education services for children ages two through four with developmental delays or disabilities. This free program is provided by Roanoke City Public Schools for each preschooler who qualifies. Together with the parents/guardian, we develop an Individualized Education Program (IEP) based on their evaluation and needs.

The Virginia Department of Education has a Parent Ombudsman for Special Education, who serves as a resource to parents in non-legal special education matters. An Ombudsman is a person who serves as a designated neutral party who advocates for a fair process and provides confidential, informal assistance and support to parents, guardians, advocates, educators, and students with disabilities. 

Resources and information about special education services within the Commonwealth of Virginia.

The Virginia Alternate Assessment Program (VAAP) is designed to evaluate the performance of students with significant cognitive disabilities in grades 3-8 and high school.