Families with special needs children often face challenges in securing appropriate educational and developmental support, even when working within the public school system. The Tennessee Technical Assistance Network (TN-TAN), funded by the Department of Education, serves to facilitate additional resources and support to educators, administrators, advocates, and families.
TN-TAN provides free, high-caliber technical assistance and resources. It targets the enhancement of outcomes for students with disabilities aged 3-22, aiding school districts, educators, administrators, and families.
TN-TAN’s services include:
Assistive Technology: This program focuses on aiding districts and staff in the implementation of assistive technology. It encompasses strategic planning, staff development, coaching, and access to assistive technology equipment for trial assessments.
Autism Support: Delivered by TRIAD at Vanderbilt University Medical Center, this service offers specialized training and coaching to educators, focusing on classroom and systemic support for students with autism spectrum disorder.
Intensive Behavior: Also facilitated through TRIAD, this service provides in-depth assistance for advanced behavior support needs, including staff instruction on behavior assessment, intervention, and continuous coaching.
Preschool Initiatives: AnLar collaborates in enhancing systems and capacity for inclusive preschool environments for disabled students. This includes development planning, professional training, leadership coaching, and aid in implementing inclusive, evidence-based practices.
RTI2-A + RTI2-B Support: This service assists in creating and executing aligned student support systems, offering training and resources for academic and behavioral support frameworks.
Secondary Transition: Managed by Transition Tennessee at Vanderbilt, this service ensures transition-aged students (14-22) with disabilities receive comprehensive transition plans and access to optimal opportunities and services for their postsecondary aspirations.
Family Engagement in Special Education: This project aims to heighten family involvement in special education, thereby enhancing student outcomes. It supports schools with training and planning to empower families in their child’s special education journey.
Families, educators, and school districts can access these services through TN-TAN’s website. Caregivers, educators, administrators, and paraprofessionals can refer students for services.
TN-TAN can be a useful resource in Tennessee for families of children with special needs. Its extensive range of services provides invaluable support, leading to improved educational outcomes and quality of life for students with disabilities. Leveraging these services equips families and educators with the tools to effectively advocate for and meet the unique needs of our students.