A free workshop at MTSU on Saturday, April 20, aims to help parents of children with disabilities learn about and meet their children’s educational needs.

“Basic Rights: A Parent’s Introduction to Special Education,” will be held from 8:30 to 11:30 a.m. April 20 at the Tennessee Center for the Study and Treatment of Dyslexia, located at 200 N. Baird Lane on the MTSU campus.

It’s part of a statewide series of workshops sponsored by STEP Inc. — Support and Training for Exceptional Parents — to give parents more information on special education opportunities.

STEP, a federally funded program, also helps parents learn about the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act and offers guidance in advocating for their children’s rights and the best solutions to their educational needs.

All materials at the MTSU workshop are free to parents of children with disabilities. Professionals also are welcome to attend, but a small fee may be charged for their materials.

Each family also will receive a free parents’ manual with information on federal and state laws on special education.

Space is limited to 24 workshop participants, and registration is required by Friday, April 12. Contact Grace James at 615-494-8880 or grace.james@mtsu.edu for more information and to register. You also may click on the parents’ information flier at right for a printable version.

STEP personnel also can answer specific questions about education rights for children with disabilities up to age 22. Parents with questions about STEP can visit www.tnstep.org or contact Joey Ellis at 615-463-2310 or the STEP Parent Information Line at 800-280-7837 for free assistance.