Publications

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At PaTTAN, our goal is to provide educators with a breadth of publications that are grounded in proven best practices and a deep research base, reflecting a commitment to school improvement. PaTTAN offers publications on a variety of topics, all focused on improving educational results for students with and without disabilities.

Whether you are just starting out in the field of education, or you want to improve upon the work you and your team are already doing, let PaTTAN support you with the expertise of our educational consultants. Pennsylvania educators, school administrators, and families can view, download, and order PaTTAN publications mailed to their school or home. 

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Results 1-10 of 13
APR: A Comparative Guide to Obtaining an Emergency Permit and Experience-Based Certificate
February 13, 2026

APR: A Comparative Guide to Obtaining an Emergency Permit and Experience-Based Certificate

In Pennsylvania, individuals can begin teaching special education while working toward full certification. This comparative guide highlights key requirements and distinctions between a Special Education Emergency Permit Type 01 and Experience-Based (Instructional) Certificate.
Special Education Timelines (Spanish)
January 13, 2026

Special Education Timelines (Spanish)

(Spanish Version) This booklet cites the special education timelines in accordance with the requirements of Pennsylvania law - Chapter 14 Special Education Services and Programs and Federal Regulations Part 300, and the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA). Also available in English.
PaTTAN Family Support Specialists
August 6, 2025

PaTTAN Family Support Specialists

This fact sheet provides an overview of PaTTAN Family Support Specialists who are trained in various aspects of special education and family-school partnerships.
APR: Steps to Obtaining a Pennsylvania Special Education Teaching Certificate
July 23, 2025

APR: Steps to Obtaining a Pennsylvania Special Education Teaching Certificate

Are you or someone you know interested in earning a bachelor’s degree and becoming a special education teacher? This infographic explains the steps to take in order to obtain a special education instructional I certification in Pennsylvania.
Is Your Child Having Difficulty in School? A Guide to Communicating With School Staff
June 30, 2025

Is Your Child Having Difficulty in School? A Guide to Communicating With School Staff

Is your child having difficulty in school? This information guide provides parents with a path for effective communication with school staff.
Pennsylvania Special Education Advisory Panel (SEAP)
June 17, 2025

Pennsylvania Special Education Advisory Panel (SEAP)

This flyer details the purpose, duties, and other information about the Special Education Advisory Panel (SEAP).
Understanding the Language of Special Education: A Glossary for Families and Educators
June 17, 2025

Understanding the Language of Special Education: A Glossary for Families and Educators

This guide was developed to give families and educators in Pennsylvania an understanding of the language of special education so they can more easily participate in educational decision-making.

Special Education for School-Age Children in Pennsylvania: A Guide for Families (Spanish)
April 8, 2025

Special Education for School-Age Children in Pennsylvania: A Guide for Families (Spanish)

This Spanish-language guide for families of children receiving special education in Pennsylvania outlines how a child's need for special education is determined, how a child's educational program is developed, the responsibilities and protections guaranteed to caregivers and children, and the resources available to families of a child with disabilities. [Also available in English].

Please note: This publication has had a title change. This was previously known as Pennsylvania Parent Guide to Special Education for School-Age Children. 

Top 40 Youth-Friendly Acronyms and Initialisms
July 23, 2024

Top 40 Youth-Friendly Acronyms and Initialisms

This fact sheet was developed with PaTTAN's Youth Engagement Specialists (YES) and shows common terms that are used when talking about secondary transition. Sharing this information will help youth understand the terms used in discussions that impact their education and future.
Education ABCs
June 7, 2024

Education ABCs

This card identifies commonly used acronyms and initialisms used in the field of special education.



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Thank you for your interest in PaTTAN publications!

 

Consultants

Barbara Gilligan

PaTTAN - East