If your child receives any special education services at school, you as a parent need to be aware that there are federal and state laws that protect your child's right to a free, appropriate public education in what is called the least-restrictive environment.

In a nutshell, the laws say that separate classrooms, separate programs and separate guidelines for extracurricular activities are not the gold standard for how children should be educated.

If your child receives early intervention services, has an Individual Education Plan (IEP) or a "504 Plan," you need to be familiar with the federal and state regulations, including how federal No Child Left Behind Law provisions impact those receiving special education services.

There are two resources parents have to become familiar with as informed partners in the education decisions made about their child.

First, there is the federally funded parent training and information center called the Parent Education and Advocacy Leadership (PEAL) Center, which covers all of Western Pennsylvania and Central Pennsylvania. The PEAL Center is an organization of parents with special health care needs and disabilities that reaches out to assist other parents and professionals.

PEAL offers services at no charge to families and provides free training workshops across the region. Its Web address is www.pealcenter.org.

Second, there is Midwestern Intermediate Unit IV, which advocates for students and families receiving special education services in Butler, Lawrence and Mercer counties. This is a vital part of the commonwealth's education system and is charged with monitoring public school special education programs preparing for state review.

This is an invaluable way for parents to get connected locally. The Web address is www.miu4.k12.pa.us.

Education advocates across the region worked tirelessly to spare the education funding formula that was started last year, even in these tough economic times. The push continues to make sure this includes adequate funding for any child needing additional educational services.

Every child can learn, and it is vital that we make sure all children are receiving appropriate educational support to reach their full potential.

Getting connected to these two organizations is just the start for parents to become more knowledgeable partners as they navigate the special education system in Pennsylvania.

Knowledge is power, and the laws strongly favor kids.