Back to School with RIPIN

Image of students in school, special education students and families, student support. RIPIN provides special education support to families across Rhode Island. From IEPs to 504 plans, get expert guidance, resources, and support to advocate for your child's needs

Back-to-school season is the perfect time to connect with resources and support for your family. RIPIN offers workshops, support groups, on-demand learning, and personalized support to help parents and caregivers navigate education, healthcare, and wellness. Explore the opportunities below and discover how RIPIN can support you and your child throughout the year.

Learning Opportunities

Image of RIPIN Learning Opportunities flyer which outlines workshops and trainings in special education, self-directed support, and skill building. The flyer links to an interactive PDF with links to register.

Join one of RIPIN’s upcoming workshops or trainings to strengthen your knowledge and skills as a parent, caregiver, or professional. Our sessions cover a wide range of topics—from special education and healthcare access to family wellness and advocacy—and are led by RIPIN peer professionals who combine lived experience with expertise.

Registration is required. View the flyer to see upcoming events and register today!

Upcoming Workshops

September 9th – Policy 101 – Build Your Advocacy Skills

Join us on September 9, 10:00-11:30 AM on Zoom, for a workshop designed to help families of children and youth with special health care needs understand the basics of public policy and advocacy. Whether you’re new to advocacy or looking to strengthen your skills, this session will leave you feeling more confident and informed. Register today!

September 10th – Skills for Effective Parent Advocacy

Join us for our virtual webinar, “Skills for Effective Parent Advocacy,” on Tuesday, September 10th at 6 PM on Zoom. This session is designed for Rhode Island parents and caregivers of students in special education to learn practical strategies for communicating with educators, resolving disagreements, and understanding your rights and responsibilities. Register today!


Recorded Webinars

Can’t make a live workshop? Browse our growing library of recorded webinars and learn at your own pace. These sessions cover popular topics such as IEPs and 504s, healthcare transition planning, and strategies for family well-being. Available anytime, anywhere—so you can learn when it works best for you.

View our library of recorded webinars today!

Image of the RIPIN Special Education webinar flyer, which outlines recorded workshops that are available in the RIPIN webinar library. Flyer links to the library of webinars.

Parent Training & Information Center (PTIC)

RIPIN’s Parent Training & Information Center is here to help families understand and navigate the special education system. Whether you’re preparing for your child’s IEP or 504 plan, supporting a transition between school levels, or advocating for your child’s needs, our team provides the guidance, tools, and confidence you need to work in partnership with schools.

Need support or have a question? Reach out to the RIPIN education team today at [email protected]!

Helpful Resources


Family Voices Support Groups

Connect with other parents and caregivers who truly understand. Family Voices support groups are a safe space to share experiences, ask questions, and build community. Groups are led by trained facilitators who are also parents of children with special healthcare needs or disabilities. Together, we find support, encouragement, and resources to navigate challenges and celebrate successes.

View the Support Group webpage today!

Image of RIPIN support group flyer which includes information about the Family Voices support groups. The flyer links to the support group page where people can find upcoming dates and links to register.

Community Health Network

Image of the Community Health Network (CHN) flyer of offered classes for managing and preventing chronic conditions and disease.

Caring for children and family members often means putting your own health last. The Community Health Network offers support, coaching, and resources for parents and caregivers managing or preventing chronic conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, and stress-related illness. Connect with others, set wellness goals, and take steps toward a healthier you.

View the Community Health Network page to explore classes and take a step towards better health today!