If you’re a parent or caregiver of a child or young person with a disability and want help understanding special education rights and options, you’re in the right place. No family should have to walk the special education journey alone. TNSTEP is here to walk alongside you.
TNSTEP (formerly STEP, Inc.) is a statewide nonprofit and Tennessee’s only federally designated Parent Training and Information (PTI) Center. Since 1989, we’ve helped parents of children and youth—from birth through age 26—with disabilities, special health care, mental health, and behavioral needs understand their rights under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act. We empower families with knowledge, confidence, strategies, and one-on-one support so they can advocate effectively and make informed decisions that shape their child’s education and future.
How We Help
Navigating special education can feel overwhelming. Evaluations, meetings, and paperwork—like IEPs, IFSPs, BIPs, or 504 plans—can be confusing, and it’s not always clear what your child is entitled to or how to ask for it. That’s where TNSTEP comes in.
We offer in-person and virtual trainings and workshops designed to give parents clear, practical guidance about special education rights and processes. These sessions help families learn strategies, build confidence, and connect with other parents facing similar challenges.
For families who need extra support, we provide personalized, one-on-one services, including:
We also provide parent-friendly resources, from fact sheets and videos to planning guides, so families have trusted information at their fingertips.
Our goal is simple: to make sure families are prepared, empowered, and supported, so every child can access the education and services they need to thrive at school and in life.
Need an Advocate?
Many parents ask, “Can TNSTEP attend my child’s IEP meeting?” While we don’t serve as advocates, we help parents understand their rights, review plans, and prepare questions so they can participate fully in decisions about their child’s education. TNSTEP staff may attend meetings in certain situations and when available, but we never make decisions for the family.
Our goal is to empower parents with knowledge and strategies so they can advocate effectively and make informed decisions for their child—confidently and independently.
TNSTEP services are provided at no cost to families. Services are provided in multiple languages upon request.
Impact and Results of TNSTEP
Empowering Tennessee Families Through Special Education Support
TNSTEP delivers meaningful support to families across Tennessee, responding to over 71,000 requests for assistance and reaching more than 109,000 website visitors—most through online search. Through free workshops, webinars, and direct outreach, over 111,000 parents and professionals were served, alongside broad engagement through social media, newsletters, and the distribution of more than 300,000 resources. TNSTEP’s work ensures families have access to trusted guidance, training, and advocacy when navigating special education.
Data: Oct 2023 – Sept 2024
