Whether you are new to the world of special education or have been helping your child or young adult with disabilities access educational services to meet their unique needs for years, TNSTEP is the organization you can turn to for special education assistance and resources.
TNSTEP (Support and Training for Exceptional Parents) is a statewide nonprofit organization established in 1989. In Tennessee, we are the only organization charged by the U.S. Department of Education, Office of Special Education Programs (OSEP), to provide information and support to families of children and youth with any disability, mental health need, or special healthcare need birth through 26.
TNSTEP provides free information, one-on-one assistance, and educational materials to help families learn how to advocate for their children with disabilities and youth to learn to speak up for themselves. With information and assistance from our experienced team members, families and youth can successfully navigate the special education process to ensure children and youth are prepared to exit high school prepared for the life they choose, including further education, independent living, employment, and community involvement.
Our staff members offer virtual, and when possible, in-person trainings for youth, parents, and caregivers, and virtual and in-service presentations for schools, educators’, and service providers throughout the state. We provide information to help families and educators work together to achieve the best outcomes for children and youth with disabilities. Our goal is to improve the educational results for all children, train and inform parents and professionals while connecting children and youth with disabilities to the resources that address their individual needs.
In addition, TNSTEP helps families, caregivers, professionals, and youth build skills to become effective participants in meetings where decisions are being made related to special education and equal access to free and appropriate education. We provide up to date information about special education rights, easy to understand resources, and individual assistance.
We know that navigating the special education system is often an overwhelming and confusing process, so the STEP team is here to guide you. Contact a team member at tnstep.org/get-support/ or toll-free at (800) 280-STEP.
Visit our resource-packed website at www.tnstep.org, which provides the latest information, news, updates, events, and online resources, plus training videos on our YouTube channel at TNSTEP.
Follow TNSTEP on social media to keep up-to-date with all of the latest news and events. “Like” TNSTEP on Facebook and follow us on Twitter and Instagram to receive ongoing updates.