Fort Worth ISD Special Education Resources

Hi, I'm a Texas parent of a 2e child. When I watched the school system fail her, I realized how broken the process is. I built this resource to help parents like you get the support your child deserves. You are not alone.

Welcome to the Fort Worth ISD Special Education Resource Hub, your comprehensive source for information, support, and actionable strategies for navigating special education services within our district. We are committed to empowering students with disabilities to thrive academically, socially, and emotionally, and this hub is designed to provide families, educators, and community members with the tools to make that happen. Explore resources covering evaluations, individualized education programs (IEPs), related services, and transition planning. We encourage you to actively engage with the content, connect with our team, and utilize these resources to advocate for the success of every student. Together, we can build a brighter future for all.
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About Special Education in Fort Worth ISD

Fort Worth ISD serves the Texas area with a commitment to providing quality special education services to students with disabilities. The district operates under the oversight of TEA Region unknown, ensuring compliance with state and federal regulations. Our dedicated team of professionals is committed to supporting each student's unique needs and maximizing their potential.

The Admission, Review, and Dismissal (ARD) process is a cornerstone of special education in Fort Worth ISD. Parents are integral members of the ARD committee, which develops and implements the Individualized Education Program (IEP). Please note that Fort Worth ISD adheres to the state mandated timeline of 45 school days to complete a Full and Individual Evaluation (FIE) once parental consent is received. You will receive a minimum of 5 school days’ notice prior to any ARD committee meeting.

Common Questions from Fort Worth ISD Families

What if I disagree with the ARD committee's decision?

You have the right to disagree with the ARD committee's decisions. You can request another ARD meeting to discuss your concerns, or you can pursue other options, such as mediation or a formal complaint to the Texas Education Agency (TEA).

How do I request an independent educational evaluation (IEE)?

If you disagree with the district's evaluation, you have the right to request an IEE at public expense if the district evaluation is deemed inappropriate. You must make this request in writing to the Fort Worth ISD special education department. The district then has the option of agreeing to pay for the IEE or initiating a due process hearing to defend its evaluation.

What types of services are available for my child in Fort Worth ISD?

Fort Worth ISD offers a range of special education services, including resource classes, self-contained classrooms, speech therapy, occupational therapy, physical therapy, and counseling. The specific services your child receives will be determined by their individual needs as outlined in their IEP.

Practical Tip for Parents

Fort Worth ISD is a large district, but if you feel you're not being heard or that communication is slow, remember that sometimes email is your best friend. Document everything in writing. This creates a paper trail of your communications and requests, which can be very helpful if you need to escalate an issue. Keep a copy of every email you send or receive regarding your child's special education services.