This pamphlet guides parents of children with disabilities through the procedures for acquiring special education services in the state of Washington. Following an overview of special education, the pamphlet presents information on notice and consent procedures, confidentiality of records, individualized education programs (IEP), the placement process, and due process. An appendix answers common questions about eligibility for special education, types of special education services available, and procedures for bringing a student with a suspected handicapping condition to the attention of school personnel. The pamphlet concludes with a checklist concerning the IEP meeting and the student's placement in the least restrictive environment. The pamphlet is also available in Spanish under the title "Guia para Padres--Educacion Especial." (JDD)