The Parent Consultant Training Institute (PCTI)

Profound! I was engaged and intrigued with all the vast range of topics, enthusiastic presenters and the collaboration of the group interactions was wonderful. As long of a day it was, I found myself daily wanting more, wanting to continue the discussions.” – PCTI Participant

The Parent Consultant Training Institute (PCTI) is an intensive training program designed to provide all families and professionals with a solid foundation in special education laws and procedures. Participants have the opportunity to learn from experts in the field, network with each other, and become part of a community dedicated to supporting children in special education. This course is open to people with all levels of experience and is a great starting place for those interested in bringing their advocacy to a higher level.

The training generally consists of 40-54 hours of instruction and includes topics such as:

  •   Basic Rights in Special EducationA woman sitting at a table with document in front of her.
  • Federal and State Legislative History (IDEA and MGL c 71B)
  • Special Education Advocacy and Implementation of the Law
  • Writing Measurable IEP Goals
  • Effective Progress
  • Supporting Culturally and Linguistically Diverse Families
  • Healthcare and the IEP
  • Neuropsychological Evaluations                                                   .
  • Academic Evaluations
  • Discipline and Suspension
  • Transition Planning and  Assessments
  • Section 504 Plans
  • Family Engagement
  • Effective Communication
  • Problem Resolution Service (PRS) Complaints
  • BSEA Mediation and Appeals
  • The Office of Civil Rights

Presenters include attorneys, and experts in the field of special education, representatives from the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE), the Bureau of Special Education Appeals (BSEA), Federation staff, among others.

An optional Information Center internship is available to those who complete the PCTI and wish to further develop their skills. Please click on this link or contact Ingrid Arvidson (iarvidson@fcsn.org) to learn more about our internships.

We highly recommend that PCTI attendees have some familiarity with special education procedures (i.e., FCSN Basic Rights Series Workshops: Evaluation and Eligibility, Understanding the Individualized Education Program, Transition Planning for ages [14-22]). A list of free workshops presented by the Federation can be found by clicking on this link.

Registration for our June 2023 5-Day Session and our Summer Asynchronous Session will be available in April!

Receive Updates for Upcoming PCTIs

Please fill out this form to receive updates regarding our upcoming PCTIs and to be notified when registration is open!

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