The Education Department at The Arc of Greater Houston serves
families of children with special needs and professionals interested in better serving these families. Two basic types of education services are offered. To help families and professionals understand and navigate the public school, special education system for children ages 3-21 (22 in some cases) we have the Right to Learn Program. For more general educational information about special needs, particularly those related to developmental disabilities such as mental retardation, autism and fetal alcohol spectrum disorders we offer basic trainings and informational packets on topics of interest that can be downloaded from this site.. For more information on details regarding these two types of services go to the links provided below.

Right to Learn Progran
The Right to Learn Program directly helps students obtain a free, appropriate education in the least restrictive environment. Our services include: providing educational information to families and schools; providing training on special education concerns for parents, teachers, school administrators, and other professionals in workshop, conference, support group, and other settings; and providing assistance to parents preparing for A.R.D. (Admission, Review, Dismissal) meetings. The program also facilitates a Parents and Professionals in Special Education (PPSE) trainings at least one time per month.

Education Program for Disability Needs
provides information and training related to a number of disability concerns. Trainings are not currently downloadable. If you are interested in a presentation on topics listed below at community events and meetings please call 713-957-1600 for detailed information.

Downloadable Information:
1. Guardianship Guide
Guardianship and Preferred Alternatives
2. The Resource Guide for Families of Children with Special Needs
Resource Guide Nov 2007 Edition

Trainings on Disabilities:
1. An Overview of Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders for Families and Professionals
2. Interacting and Working with Individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorders
3. An Overview of Waiver Programs and Other Financial Assistance Programs Available for Persons with Intellectual and Related Developmental Disabilities

Advocacy and Awareness

Social and Leisure Programs

Candy Cane Ball