Family to Family Network

01/12/2026

Stipend applications are available for the Texas Transition conference for families & individuals with disabilities! https://web.cvent.com/event/448a547b-124a-4581-b7ae-c8059d27fd64/websitePage:ca7dc98e-8ba8-448e-81bb-f6b53791ae73

01/04/2026

If you are thinking about accessing the new Educational Savings Account when the application opens on Feb. 4 and do not have a school evaluation - here's a link to the process in a Letter to Administrators:
https://tea.texas.gov/about-tea/news-and-multimedia/correspondence/taa-letters/senate-bill-2-education-savings-accounts-and-children-with-disabilities

01/03/2026

The Texas Education Freedom accounts (voucher) application opens Feb 4 and closes March 17. Please note the requirements for students needing special education services. You must have a current IEP on file by the application deadline (Mar 17) for additional funding and prioritization.
There are other options for funding without IEP - an FIIE or a special doctor form. Check the website for requirements and to see schools accepting funding (Good luck finding a “special school” on the list!) https://educationfreedom.texas.gov/

12/29/2025

So is this a "new model" or just "segregation" at the "expense" of the district?

https://abc13.com/post/lamar-cisd-plans-open-first-kind-charter-school-students-autism/18299064/?

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The district said it was already planning to move students from Beasley Elementary. Now, instead of remaining vacant, district leaders said it will become a school for students on the spectrum.

12/28/2025

So sad to learn this. Bob was an extraordinary organizer for individuals with disabilities and the issues impacting every day life. We learned so much from him. May he rest in peace with the other disability elders. Sending hugs to Stephanie & other friends & family who knew him well

Bob Kafka was an organizer with ADAPT (American Disabled for Attendant Programs Today), a group which advocates for policy change to support people with disabilities.

12/19/2025

Remember our history! 50 years of education. Let’s Not Return to the past. Families you must stay vigilant to ensure your children have a future filled with a meaningful life in the community.
vs

50 years ago, the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act ended the routine institutionalization of kids with disabilities. Advocates fear a return to that dark time.

12/15/2025

Great video! Enjoy!!

https://www.instagram.com/reel/DRy9zTTj9Lb/?igsh=dGRqdWc0MWU4bG0=

12/08/2025

Last chance to provide input for the Attendant Care Coalition on the authorized attendant rate increase. https://www.research.net/r/AttendantRate

11/26/2025

Gratitude is at the heart of everything we do — and this season, we're especially thankful for the opportunity to work with such incredible people.

Whether you're traveling, cooking up a feast, or simply enjoying some well-deserved rest, we hope your Thanksgiving is filled with what (and who!) matters most.

Wishing you and your loved ones a warm, safe, and memorable Thanksgiving!

11/15/2025

Sorry about last minute post - but here are some food distribution sites for Sat. Nov. 15
Northwest Assistance Ministries 8 am - 1 pm Register Here: https://www.houstonfoodbank.org/distribution-registration-northwest-assistance-ministries-nov-15/
Tully Stadium (Spring Branch ISD) 9 am - 12 Register Here: https://www.houstonfoodbank.org/distribution-registration-tully-stadium-spring-branch-nov-15/
Progressive High School (Fort Bend ISD) 9 am - 12 Register Here: https://www.houstonfoodbank.org/distribution-registration-tully-stadium-spring-branch-nov-15/
Catholic Charities Richmond, 9:30 am - 1 pm Register Here: https://www.houstonfoodbank.org/distribution-registration-catholic-charities-nov-15/

11/15/2025

ABLE Account changes for 2026 - 1) It appears annual limit for contributions to the account is not changing ($19000), but if you work, an individual with a disability can contribute up to the amount of the federal poverty rate of 1 person.
2) Age raises to 46!!!
3) Rollovers from 529 college plans is permanent - YAY - start saving for your child's future when they are young in a 529 college savings plan.
4) The Savers Credit (for eligible contributions by individuals with disabilities) is permanent and allows for a credit of up to 50% of the first $2,100 contributed, for a maximum credit of $1,050.
5) Upon death of the individual with disability, a state may file a claim for Medicaid payback AFTER other expenses are paid.

11/11/2025

November 12, 6 pm, Brazos Bend Guardianship & Alternatives to Guardianship Virtual Information Session - register online https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/lfmvJF6TQAyRm1JGX0wA9