About – WVPTI

OUR MISSION

West Virginia Parent Training and Information, Inc. is dedicated to empowering and supporting parents and caregivers of children, youth, and young adults with all disabilities from birth to age 26. Our mission is to strengthen parent involvement through knowledge, advocacy, leadership, and active participation in their children’s education and well-being. Additionally, we provide guidance and resources to assist youth transitioning from high school to post-secondary education and independent living, ensuring they have the tools and support necessary for a successful future

OUR HISTORY

The West Virginia Parent Training and Information, Inc. (WV PTI) is a statewide 501(c)3 non-profit organization. Since 1991, WV PTI began as a grass-roots effort of parents, professionals, and community leaders determined to provide information, resources, and support for parents and families of children and youth with disabilities and special healthcare needs. WV PTI supports families to develop the skills necessary to effectively participate in their children’s and youth’s planning and decision-making for early intervention, education, and transitional services. WV Parent Training and Information, Inc.’s philosophy is that parents and caregivers are full partners in the decision-making processes that direct their child’s education and services. We believe parents must be provided with accurate information and be allowed to make informed decisions.

The struggles of a child with special needs can be so brutal that they can tear at the very fabric of your heart, but the love shared and the pure strength and heroism observed is the needle and thread that mends all tears.

Colin Farrell

About Us

West Virginia Parent Training and Information, Inc. (WVPTI) provides high-quality, relevant, and
practical training, information, and resources to support the families of children and youth with
unique needs and young adults with disabilities from birth through age twenty-six. WVPTI is a
statewide project funded by the U.S. Department of Education.
As part of the National Technical Assistance Center for Parent Information and Resources
(CPIR) and Region C Technical Assistance Center (PTAC), WVPTI promotes collaboration among
families, professionals, and advocates. We emphasize the essential role of parents and caregivers
as valued decision-makers in addressing the unique needs of their child or youth. Additionally, we
empower young people with disabilities to become self-advocates and leaders as they transition
into adulthood, utilizing Supported Decision-Making (SDM) or guardianship where appropriate.

Guidance and Governance

WV PTI, Inc., is not a legal services agency and does not provide legal advice or representation. Any
information shared on our website or through our organization is for informational purposes only
and should not be considered a substitute for legal counsel.
WV PTI, Inc. is governed by a volunteer Board of Directors composed of parents, consumers, and
professionals. The Board provides oversight on policies, finances, programs, and property to ensure
the organization’s mission and goals are effectively met. The majority of our Board (over 50%)
consists of parents and families of children, teens, and youth with disabilities and unique needs,
ensuring that our leadership is directly connected to the communities we serve.
At WV PTI, we are committed to fostering partnerships that enhance the lives of children and youth
with disabilities and equipping families with the tools, knowledge, and support they need to
successfully navigate their child’s journey.

Meet WVPTI

Our Values

Quality Leadership

Education and Knowledge

Caring Emotional Support

Advocacy

Collaborative Partnerships

Our Vision

WV Parent Training and Information (WVPTI) envisions a future where all children and youth with disabilities in West Virginia reach their full potential, empowered by informed and engaged parents and caregivers. We strive for a state where families and professionals collaborate to create inclusive, supportive educational environments that lead to positive post-secondary outcomes and lifelong success

impact

Learning & Participation

All children and youth can learn and have the right to a quality education and to fully participate in their schools and communities.

Collaboration

Communication and collaboration between parents and teachers support inclusive education and student needs through our leadership training and support group.

Informed Decision-making

We believe parents and caregivers must have the information to make informed decisions about their child’s education and empower them through our training and resources.

Community Understanding

We foster community understanding by affirming the uniqueness of all individuals and reducing isolation through education and community outreach activities.

Engagement

Providing and promoting active engagement and informational support for parents through interactive workshops.

Our Staff

Meet the staff at WV Parent Training and Information. The Parent Engagement Specialists (PES) and staff are family members of children and youth with disabilities. Parent Engagement Specialists (PES) are experienced with navigating the special education maze and searching for information and resources in West Virginia. It can be a comfort to speak with someone who has traveled the same path you are currently on. At WV PTI, we attend a limited number of IEP and 504 meetings and truly understand how overwhelming the process can be.