Parent Training and Information Centers

The purpose of the Parent Training and Information Centers program (ALN: 84.328) is to ensure that parents of children with disabilities receive high-quality, relevant, and useful training and information to help improve outcomes for their children. The IDEA authorizes three types of competitive projects under the Parent Training and Information Centers program: parent training and information centers, community parent resource centers, and technical assistance for parent centers. The award period for these projects is typically 5 years.

Parent training and information centers must serve parents of children of all ages (birth to 26) and all types of disabilities. Awards are made only to parent organizations as defined by IDEA. The training and information provided by the centers must meet the training and information needs of parents of children with disabilities living in areas served by the centers, particularly underserved parents and parents of children who may be inappropriately identified. At least one award for a parent training and information center must be made in each state, subject to the receipt of acceptable applications. Large and heavily populated states typically have multiple centers that serve designated counties. The parent centers also play an important role in dispute resolution by explaining to parents the benefits of alternative methods of dispute resolution, such as mediation, which states are required, by the IDEA, to make available. Parent center staff attend or facilitate over 1,000 alternative dispute resolution sessions every year. These alternative methods of dispute resolution can help avoid costly litigation. As part of that role, parent centers are required to meet with parents to explain the IDEA-mandated mediation process. In states where parent centers provide this service, they typically do so through contracts with State educational agencies.