ABOUT PTI

PTI Nebraska (Parent Training and Information) is a statewide resource for families of children with disabilities and special health care needs.

PTI Nebraska has been the Parent and Training Information Center (PTIC or PTI) since 2000. PTIs are also sometimes known as “Parent Centers.” There is at least one Parent Center in each state and U.S. territory. Some states have more than one depending on population size. Nebraska has only one PTI, and we operate statewide. The PTI is a federally funded project of the U.S. Department of Education. Nebraska’s PTI is also supported with private donations raised by our board members because our federal funds do not cover the entire cost of reaching all communities in need across the state. The authority to fund PTIs exist inside Part D of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), which means we answer to a federal project officer and work in partnership with other parent centers and technical assistance centers around the country.

The goal of the PTI is to empower families to feel confident in navigating their child’s special education process. PTI Nebraska helps parents understand their rights and responsibilities regarding early intervention, special education, and transition services, and helps parents gain the knowledge and tools they need to participate effectively in their children’s education. We help support parents throughout their child’s educational journey serving families who have babies, toddlers, school-aged children, and young adults (to age 26). We help parents build partnerships with school professionals to improve educational outcomes for their children with disabilities.

We offer various trainings and resources related to special education and disabilities and also provide one-to-one support to families of children and young adults with disabilities. Our trainings are conducted in different formats including in-person, through online webinars, and at conferences and events across the state. Our individualized assistance is provided via phone, email, mail, and in-person at our office.

Even if your child is not receiving special education, but you suspect they may have a disability or you are concerned about your child’s struggles and challenges in school, you can contact PTI with your questions and concerns.

 

OUR MISSION

To provide training, information, and support to families with children birth to age 26 who have disabilities or special healthcare needs; To empower parents and enable them to advocate effectively for their child’s needs and have the capacity to improve the educational outcomes for their children.

OUR VISION

Children with disabilities will be prepared to lead productive, independent adult lives to the maximum extent possible.

OFFICERS

President – Jim Pettid – Omaha – Parent | CFO Medics at Home

Vice President – Corey DeJong – Omaha – Parent | Marketing Director at OPPD

Ex Officio – Seamus Kelly – Omaha – Parent I Law Office of Seamus Kelly

MEMBERS

Kami Jessop – Omaha – Educator | Special Education Director, Westside Schools #66

Zach Davis – Le Mars, Iowa – Educator | Dean of Students – LeMars Public Schools

Trina Shaw – Kearney NE – Parent

Maryjan Fiala – Omaha NE – Parent

DONATIONS EVENTS & FUNDRAISING