LDAH, Hawaii's Parent Training and Information Center (PTI), is now seeking IDEA experienced Parents to serve as Volunteer Community-Based Liaisons, Statewide. If you are interested in becoming involved in this NEW Project, please contact Rosie Rowe at RRowe@LDAHawaii.org.

The Hawaii PTI is the Parent Training and Information Center for our Island home. Since 1990, PTI has been supported by grants from the U.S. Department of Education under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA). Through this project, parents of children with special needs and the professionals who serve them are provided support, training and "educational advocacy" services.

An advocate is defined as, "one who pleads another's cause; one who speaks on behalf of or for another." An advocate does not mean an adversary. The focus of PTI is listening, assisting, supporting, mentoring and training parents to be the best advocate for their child.

When You Call:

Our Intake/Information Specialist will listen to your concerns and ask questions in order to complete our Request for Assistance form. Parents may be asked about their child's strengths, needs, interests, and progress at school. We may also inquire whether the child has been determined eligible for special education and related services, if an Individualized Education Program (IEP) has been developed for your child, and/or and IEP meeting has been held with the school.

We believe that training and mentoring begins from the moment a parent or professional calls for information or assistance. Depending on the inquiry, we may provide immediate suggestions and technical assistance, we may suggest attendance at a workshop or support group, or we may ask the parent to gather additional information.

All information provided to us is confidential. Many parents contact PTI requesting an "advocate" to accompany them to meetings. PTI supported staff or LDAH trained volunteers may be able to provide this service as resources allow.