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Group of girls studying together in a library, symbolizing collaboration and inclusive education.

WHAT WE DO

Special Education Advocacy

Empowering Students. Supporting Families.

Every child has the right to an education that meets their needs. But too often, students with IDD face segregation, restraint, lack of accommodations, and poor transition planning.

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For 70 years, The Arc of Oklahoma has advocated for students with intellectual and developmental disabilities at school. The Arc’s advocacy helped pass the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA). The IDEA is a federal law that requires schools to teach all students with disabilities with their peers who do not have disabilities as much as possible.

 

We provide:

✔ Help navigating the special education system, including IEPs & 504 Plans.

✔ Training for parents, educators, and professionals on special education law.

✔ Advocacy for students facing unfair suspensions, lack of services, or discrimination.

 

Knowledge is power! We help families understand their rights and take action.

Call us at 888-970-6459

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Young girl smiling while holding a tablet in the classroom.

Special Education Advocacy: Get Started

Learn the basics of special education advocacy.

The Arc@School

The Arc@School initiative trains parents and service professionals on special education law and IEP best practices, complementing direct representation for complex cases. By protecting clients’ rights and removing barriers to support, the program reduces stress, builds resilience, and ensures families are empowered to access the services and accommodations their loved ones need to thrive.  

 

Our instructor-led online advocacy curriculum includes eight sessions and provides the basic information that parents, educators, and other advocates need to support students and families in navigating the special education system, including understanding IDEA and early intervention services, IEPs, Section 504, recurring suspensions, requesting re-evaluations or behavioral support plans, and more.  

Logo for Oklahoma Commission on Children and Youth. One of hte sponsors for the Arc@School program.

Thank you to OCCY for sponsoring the
2025 Fall Cohort of Arc@School

Erin Shepherd, Training and Outreach Coordintator for The Arc of Oklahoma presenting an Arc@School training.
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