Special education planning may be confusing or overwhelming for parents of public school children with special needs.

To help these parents, CHP Family Services offers a free online workshop, “IEP Training 101,” on Wednesday, Aug. 10, at 6:30 PM.

To participate, register for the training by clicking here or by using the button below.

Other questions about the training may be directed to Rania Markham by emailing her at rmarkham@chpberkshires.org or calling (413) 528-0457.

Rania Markham and her son Zachary.

Children with special needs are entitled to an individualized education plan (IEP), developed in collaboration with parents/caregivers and school education specialists. IEPs are intended to ensure that special needs students receive the best possible education and support services, but parents play an important advocacy role for their children.

“It’s important for IEP families to understand the process, their options, and their rights,” said Markham, workshop co-leader and parent of a child with special needs. “The more information parents have, the better they can communicate with the school and advocate for their child.”

“It’s important for IEP families to understand the process, their options, and their rights,”

Guest presenters for the workshop are Kornelia Krzyzanowska, CHP school liaison, and Karen Mowry, IEP advocate.

Markham will co-lead the workshop with Melanie Wickwire, South Berkshire WIC Coordinator and also the mother of a special needs child.