ABOUT THE PEAL CENTER…………………
WHO We Help
§ Families of children with disabilities or special health care needs
§ Friends of children with disabilities or special health care needs
§ Children, youth & young adults with disabilities or special health care needs ages 0-26
§ Professionals in education, medical and human service fields
WHO We Are
§ PEAL Parent Assistance Team
The Assistance Team consists of both parent advisors and mentors across the state of Pennsylvania.
§ PEAL Parent Advisors
PEAL Parent Advisors are available to answer questions from both families and professionals regarding special education in Pennsylvania for children from age 3- 21.
They will also help families and guardians before and after IEP meetings with strategies and plans to ensure an appropriate education for their children with disabilities. With the knowledge and resources provided by the Parent Advisor, a family may feel more confident attending these meetings for their children.
Parent Advisors also work with other members of the Parent Training and Information staff by assisting with trainings to provide the most current legal and best practice information to families and professionals.
Cindy Duch
Director of Parent Advising
412-281-4404, ext. 15
Stephanie Tecza
Parent Mentor
412-281-4404, ext. 12
§ PEAL Parent Mentors
The Parent Mentors of the PEAL Center reach out to families in the 43 counties of Western and Central Pennsylvania to share best practices, information and resources. This Western and Central PA program helps ensure that all students with disabilities receive quality educational services.
PEAL's Parent Mentors serve as links between the PEAL Center, family and service agencies and serve on local advisory boards to ensure that the family voice is always heard.
A Parent Mentor also facilitates discussions on special education with local groups and coordinates free formal and informal trainings for parents and educators.
Christina Paternoster
Astrid Arroyo
How Do I Get Started?
Give us a call between 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM:
412-281-4404
866-950-1040Toll Free
412-281-4409TTY
Is there a cost?
No. PEAL Center services are provided free of charge for Pennsylvania residents.
What can I expect when I call?
Staff will ask you a few questions to better understand your needs and will quickly direct your call to the appropriate person.
What if I'm not sure if PEAL can help me?
Call us anyway. Chances are we will know of a program or resource to fit your needs and will be able to get you pointed in the right direction. We help families and individuals witha wide variety of disabilities and special health care needs.