GREAT BARRINGTON, Mass. — For parents of children who receive special needs instruction in public schools, Community Health Programs (CHP) hosts a free, virtual workshop, "IEP Training 101" on April 6 at 10 a.m.

 

Participants may register and request a log-in link by contacting Rania Markham, rmarkham@chpberkshires.org, or call (413) 528-0457.

 

Children with special needs are entitled to an individualized education plan (IEP), which is developed in collaboration with parents/caregivers and school education specialists.

 

"It's important for parents to understand their options and rights when special education is needed in public schools," 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."

 

Guest presenters for the workshop are Dr. Barbara Snyder, 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.