Resources on Students with Special Needs

Beyond Acceptance: Autism Inclusion and Equity

This publication offers a comprehensive look at autism through the lenses of history, education and civil rights. The guide explores the evolution of autism understanding, key legislation such as IDEA and Section 504, and evidence-based approaches to instruction, behavior support, and social and emotional learning. Emphasizing equity, self-determination and meaningful inclusion, it highlights the voices and experiences of autistic individuals. Designed for educators, parents and students, this resource provides practical guidance for creating more inclusive and empowering learning environments. (2026)

Serving the Medically Fragile Child in the School Setting

This publication is designed to help and highlight the roles of teachers, nurses, administrators, paraprofessionals, and school personnel as they work to meet the needs of children with significant medical conditions. It also includes valuable information on training, health and safety, legal rights and responsibilities. (April 2024)

A Teachers’ Guide to the Common Core

This document was designed to support teachers of ELLs and students with disabilities as they seek to help their students meet new, higher standards in English language arts. Produced by AFT for AFT Connecticut, and supported by an AFT Innovation Fund grant.

Unaccompanied Children in Schools: What You Need to Know

Since 2014, more than 62,000 unaccompanied minors crossed the U.S.-Mexico border. This resource, produced by Colorín Colorado and the AFT, can help schools and educators service this unique population of students.

Where We Stand: English Language Learners

This booklet contains the resolution on English Language Learners passed at the 2006 AFT convention. Also included are a Q&A section, background information and additional reading. Item no. 39-0247. $3 each (Nov. 2006).

The Diabetes Dilemma

About one in every 400 school-age child has diabetes. Several state legislatures are being asked to consider legislation that would train nonmedical staff (teachers, paraprofessionals and others) to provide routine and emergency care to students with diabetes. This publication explains why a better solution would be to ensure that school nurses provide this care. Item no. 67-0067. $1 each (August 2004).

Closing the Achievement Gap: Focus on Latino Students

This policy brief provides the data and context to support the AFT's call for increased attention to the condition of education for Latino students. It discusses the current demographic and achievement trends of Latinos, some of the specific barriers to closing the achievement gap, and presents a set of recommendations to improve educational opportunities for Latino children. Item no. 39-PB0017. $1 each (March 2004).

Every Child Needs a School Nurse

A brochure describing AFT's campaign to educate policymakers and the public about the significant role that school nurses play in the lives of our nation's children. Item no. 67-0068. $1 each (July 2003).