Office of Special Education and Rehabilitative Services (OSERS): Office of Special Education Programs (OSEP): Community Parent Resource Centers (CPRCs)

The Community Parent Resource Centers (CPRCs) program is a discretionary grant opportunity administered by the U.S. Department of Education through the Office of Special Education and Rehabilitative Services, specifically the Office of Special Education Programs. This program is authorized under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act and is designed to strengthen the capacity of parents to support the education and development of children with disabilities. The program operates within the broader framework of Special Education Parent Information Centers and focuses on ensuring that families receive high-quality training, information, and support services. The primary purpose of the CPRCs program is to improve outcomes for children with disabilities by empowering parents with the knowledge and tools necessary to participate meaningfully in their children’s education. The program emphasizes building parents’ capacity to help their children achieve developmental, functional, and academic goals, as well as preparing them for independent adult lives to the maximum extent possible. CPRCs specifically target communities that are geographically or socially isolated from existing resources and support systems, ensuring equitable access to information and assistance for underserved populations. Funding under this opportunity supports the establishment and operation of community-based parent resource centers that provide training, outreach, and support services. These centers must focus on strengthening parental engagement both at home and within educational settings. Activities may include workshops, individualized assistance, dissemination of educational materials, and collaboration with schools and service providers. The program is structured to promote inclusive representation, requiring that participating organizations reflect the demographics of the communities they serve, including low-income families and those with limited English proficiency. Eligibility for the CPRCs program is restricted to local parent organizations as defined by federal law. These organizations must be private nonprofit entities, excluding institutions of higher education, and must have governing boards primarily composed of parents of children with disabilities. Additionally, boards must include professionals in relevant fields and individuals with disabilities, ensuring a balanced and representative leadership structure. Applicants must demonstrate nonprofit status through recognized documentation such as IRS certification or equivalent state verification. The application process follows the standard procedures for Department of Education discretionary grants. Applications must be submitted electronically through Grants.gov, beginning on April 6, 2026, and closing on June 5, 2026. Applicants must comply with federal requirements, including registration in the System for Award Management and submission of required forms and documentation. The Department anticipates making approximately 30 awards under this program, with a total estimated funding pool of $4,500,000. Evaluation of applications is conducted based on criteria established in the official notice, including the quality of the proposed project, the capacity of the applicant organization, and the anticipated impact on families and children with disabilities. Successful applicants will be required to meet reporting and performance expectations consistent with federal grant regulations. The program reflects a recurring federal investment in parent engagement and special education support, with future funding cycles expected based on continued appropriations and program priorities.

Ensure board composition meets IDEA requirements; demonstrate strong community need; emphasize parent engagement and measurable outcomes