A hand-picked collection of the most useful, trustworthy, and practical resources for new special education teachers — organized by category so you can find exactly what you need, when you need it.
Trusted sites where you can find free and low-cost materials, printables, and lesson ideas for your special education classroom.
The largest marketplace for teacher-created resources. Search 'special education,' 'IEP goals,' or 'life skills' to find thousands of ready-to-use materials — many are free.
A go-to resource blog and shop for special education teachers, with practical classroom ideas, printables, and professional development.
Evidence-based strategies, free resources, and a membership academy for teachers working with students with autism and developmental disabilities.
Resources to help you understand IEP law, write better IEPs, and advocate effectively for your students and their families.
Run by Lisa Lightner, a special education advocate and parent. Packed with IEP guides, goal banks, and plain-language explanations of special education law — invaluable for new teachers.
The definitive resource for special education law and advocacy. When you need to understand IDEA, FAPE, or your legal obligations, start here.
Excellent explanations of learning and thinking differences, IEP processes, and accommodations — written for families but equally useful for teachers.
Communities, coaching programs, and peer networks built specifically for special education teachers.
Online courses and resources for new and struggling special education teachers who want practical, classroom-ready support.
A mentorship program and community for self-contained special education teachers, built by a teacher who nearly left the profession in her first year.
Training and coaching for special education teachers and advocates focused on writing stronger, more meaningful IEPs.
Official and authoritative sources for understanding your legal responsibilities under IDEA and state special education law.
The official U.S. Department of Education resource for IDEA — the federal law governing special education. Use this to look up the actual law when you need it.
A national parent training and information center that provides resources on special education rights, IEP processes, and disability advocacy.
Resources for teaching life skills and supporting students with disabilities in their transition to adulthood.
Research-based resources, training, and tools for educators supporting students with disabilities in their transition from school to adult life.
Practical guides and resources for transition planning, self-determination, and post-secondary success for students with disabilities.
Evidence-based practices and resources for improving post-school outcomes for students with disabilities.
Evidence-based resources for managing behavior, building positive classroom environments, and supporting students with complex needs.
A comprehensive, tiered behavior intervention resource with hundreds of strategies organized by behavior type — extremely practical for daily classroom use.
Free, research-based training modules on a wide range of special education topics including behavior management, IEPs, and inclusive practices. Vanderbilt University.
This list is always growing. If you have a resource that has made a real difference in your work as a special education teacher, send it my way.
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