02/04/2026
This Valentine’s Day, join us at The A Look Ahead Conference, an event designed to help families & individuals with disabilities understand important planning topics. Colleen Potts, Disability Rights Texas' Supervising Attorney - Education team, will be joining us to discuss ARDs, bullying and education savings accounts.
📅 Saturday, February 14
⏰ 9:00 AM – 2:30 PM
📍 FUMC Arlington, 313 N. Center Street, Arlington, TX 76011
💰$20 per person (continental breakfast & lunch)
💚 Apply for register & apply for stipends alooksheadseries.com. Stipends available for people with disabilities and family members.
💚 Texas Educator & Social Worker CEUs available.
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Education Savings Accounts 101
Education Savings Accounts (ESAs) are all over the news. Join Colleen as she helps Texas parents of students with disabilities understand what ESAs are, how they work, and what they may mean for their child’s education. We’ll cover who is eligible, what expenses ESAs can be used for, how ESAs differ from special education services provided through public schools, and important considerations for families weighing this option. The goal is to provide parents with straightforward, unbiased information so they can make informed decisions that best support their child’s individual needs.
What Parents Need to Know About Bullying in Schools
Colleen will provide parents, educators, and caregivers with practical tools and knowledge to recognize, prevent, and address bullying of students with disabilities. We will explore how disability-related harassment may present differently, review legal protections and school responsibilities, and discuss strategies for fostering safe, inclusive environments. You will leave with a clearer understanding of their rights, proactive steps they can take to support students with disabilities, and resources available to ensure that every student feels respected and protected at school.
What to Do When an ARD Isn't Enough?
Ever wonder what to do when the ARD doesn't go as planned? This presentation is designed to help parents of students with disabilities understand their options when an ARD committee meeting does not result in appropriate services, supports, or progress for their child. Colleen will walk through practical next steps, including how to request additional ARDs, document concerns, ask for evaluations or Independent Educational Evaluations, and use dispute resolution options available under Texas and federal law. The goal is to empower parents with clear, actionable information so they can advocate effectively and ensure their child receives a free appropriate public education.
