Education Organizations Related to Disability

Policy and Advocacy

Council of Parent Attorneys and Advocates (COPAA). 
National nonprofit that protects legal and civil rights of students with disabilities and their families

The Arc 
Advocates for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities across life stages, including education.

National Disability Rights Network (NDRN) 
Coordinates the Protection & Advocacy (P&A) and Client Assistance Programs (CAP) across the U.S.

Disability Rights Education & Defense Fund (DREDF)
Legal advocacy and policy development organization specializing in disability civil rights in education.

Education-Focused Organizations

Council for Exceptional Children (CEC)
Professional association of educators focused on students with disabilities and gifts/talents.

National Center for Learning Disabilities (NCLD)
Advocates for equity in education policy and provides family tools on learning disabilities and ADHD.

National Association of State Directors of Special Education (NASDSE)
Supports state-level leaders implementing IDEA and special education policy.

Parent and Family Support Networks

Parent Training and Info, Centers & 
Community Parent Resource Centers
Federally funded, state-based centers that help parents understand rights under IDEA and Section 504.

PACER Center (Minnesota-based but national reach)
Provides family-friendly training, resources, and technical assistance across all major disability laws.

Accessible Technology & Education

Center for Applied Special Technology (CAST)
Originator of Universal Design for Learning (UDL).
Provides tools, research, and training on making educational technology inclusive from the ground up.

National Center on Accessible Educational Materials (AEM Center). https://aem.cast.org
A go-to for guidance on accessible ebooks, online curriculum platforms, PDFs, and more.

PACER Center – Simon Technology Center
Provides direct support and training for families and schools navigating assistive and accessible technology. Has national reach through parent training and information centers (PTIs).