About us

Parent to Parent is Georgia’s Parent Training Information Center (PTI)

PTIs are federally funded programs through the United States Department of Education Office of Special Education Programs (OSEP) authorized in Part D of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA). PTIs serve families of children with disabilities who are ages birth through 26. We serve families of children with the full range of disabilities.

What do PTIs do for families?

PTIs help families work with early intervention, education, and transition systems and services. We want to ensure that families receive training and information on their rights, responsibilities, and protections under IDEA so they can actively participate in planning and decision making that affects their children.

What do PTIs do for youth with disabilities?

PTIs help youth and young adults with disabilities get high-quality services that increase their capacity to be effective self-advocates.

What do PTIs want for children with disabilities?

By working with families and children with disabilities, PTIs want children with disabilities to:

  • meet developmental and functional goals
  • meet challenging academic achievement goals that match or come as close as possible to what has been established for all children
  • be prepared to lead productive, independent adult lives, to the maximum extent possible

I am a parent or family member. When should I call the PTI?

You might call when you have questions about a disability or diagnosis, early intervention, special education, or transition services in Georgia. The PTI can help you:

  • understand your child’s disability and special needs
  • learn about the IDEA and what it means for your child
  • learn about the options, programs, services, and resources available to help your child and family
  • learn how to talk effectively to the people who work with your child
  • actively participate in making decisions about the services your child receives
  • work effectively with your child’s school to develop your child’s educational program
  • understand the benefits of mediation for resolving disagreements with your child’s school
  • participate in school reform efforts on a local and/or statewide basis if you so choose

I am a teen or young adult with a disability. When should I call the PTI?

You might call when you have questions about:

  • Your disability, including your strengths, and your academic, behavioral and developmental challenges.
  • The importance of having high expectations for yourself and how to meet those expectations.
  • The resources available to support your success in high school and postsecondary education and employment.
  • The resources available to help you succeed in fully participating in your community.
  • IDEA, section 504, ADA, and other legislation and policies that affect people with disabilities.
  • Your rights and responsibilities while receiving services under IDEA and after transitioning to post-school programs, services and employment.
  • How you can participate on your IEP Team.
  • Making decisions that are necessary to transition to adult life.

Does Georgia’s PTI charge for services?

No, Georgia’s PTI services, and all Parent to Parent of Georgia services are provided free of charge.

How do I get started?

That’s easy! Just give us a call at 1-800-229-2038.

What can I expect when I call?

A coordinator will ask you some questions to understand what you need and work with you to develop your next steps.

What if I don’t live in Georgia?

Every state has at least one PTI. To find out information about other PTIs across the country, please visit the Center for Parent Information and Resources.