Family to Family Network

01/20/2026

TEA Special Education Funding Survey - Complete by Feb 5! https://tea.co1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_b8X7P4WLHUogEE6
Instead of allocating funds based on instructional settings, the new model will connect funding to the type and amount of services each student needs. Texas Education Agency (TEA) is requesting your input to help inform the service tiers and groups that will guide this model.

01/20/2026

Don't forget about Gateway Academy's Transition Fair on Friday 9-12 Way Houston, 50 Waugh Dr. Free Registration Here: https://lp.constantcontactpages.com/ev/reg/vdrgvmz

01/12/2026

Stipend applications are available for the Texas Transition conference for families & individuals with disabilities! https://web.cvent.com/event/448a547b-124a-4581-b7ae-c8059d27fd64/websitePage:ca7dc98e-8ba8-448e-81bb-f6b53791ae73

01/04/2026

If you are thinking about accessing the new Educational Savings Account when the application opens on Feb. 4 and do not have a school evaluation - here's a link to the process in a Letter to Administrators:
https://tea.texas.gov/about-tea/news-and-multimedia/correspondence/taa-letters/senate-bill-2-education-savings-accounts-and-children-with-disabilities

01/03/2026

The Texas Education Freedom accounts (voucher) application opens Feb 4 and closes March 17. Please note the requirements for students needing special education services. You must have a current IEP on file by the application deadline (Mar 17) for additional funding and prioritization.
There are other options for funding without IEP - an FIIE or a special doctor form. Check the website for requirements and to see schools accepting funding (Good luck finding a “special school” on the list!) https://educationfreedom.texas.gov/

12/29/2025

So is this a "new model" or just "segregation" at the "expense" of the district?

https://abc13.com/post/lamar-cisd-plans-open-first-kind-charter-school-students-autism/18299064/?

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The district said it was already planning to move students from Beasley Elementary. Now, instead of remaining vacant, district leaders said it will become a school for students on the spectrum.

12/28/2025

So sad to learn this. Bob was an extraordinary organizer for individuals with disabilities and the issues impacting every day life. We learned so much from him. May he rest in peace with the other disability elders. Sending hugs to Stephanie & other friends & family who knew him well

Bob Kafka was an organizer with ADAPT (American Disabled for Attendant Programs Today), a group which advocates for policy change to support people with disabilities.

12/19/2025

Remember our history! 50 years of education. Let’s Not Return to the past. Families you must stay vigilant to ensure your children have a future filled with a meaningful life in the community.
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50 years ago, the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act ended the routine institutionalization of kids with disabilities. Advocates fear a return to that dark time.

12/15/2025

Great video! Enjoy!!

https://www.instagram.com/reel/DRy9zTTj9Lb/?igsh=dGRqdWc0MWU4bG0=

12/08/2025

Last chance to provide input for the Attendant Care Coalition on the authorized attendant rate increase. https://www.research.net/r/AttendantRate

11/26/2025

Gratitude is at the heart of everything we do — and this season, we're especially thankful for the opportunity to work with such incredible people.

Whether you're traveling, cooking up a feast, or simply enjoying some well-deserved rest, we hope your Thanksgiving is filled with what (and who!) matters most.

Wishing you and your loved ones a warm, safe, and memorable Thanksgiving!

11/15/2025

Sorry about last minute post - but here are some food distribution sites for Sat. Nov. 15
Northwest Assistance Ministries 8 am - 1 pm Register Here: https://www.houstonfoodbank.org/distribution-registration-northwest-assistance-ministries-nov-15/
Tully Stadium (Spring Branch ISD) 9 am - 12 Register Here: https://www.houstonfoodbank.org/distribution-registration-tully-stadium-spring-branch-nov-15/
Progressive High School (Fort Bend ISD) 9 am - 12 Register Here: https://www.houstonfoodbank.org/distribution-registration-tully-stadium-spring-branch-nov-15/
Catholic Charities Richmond, 9:30 am - 1 pm Register Here: https://www.houstonfoodbank.org/distribution-registration-catholic-charities-nov-15/