The Parent-Directed Special Education Services (PDSES) grant program, which evolved from the previous Supplemental Special Education Services (SSES) program, provides financial assistance to families of students served by special education and who are enrolled in a Texas public school. This program helps families access additional educational supports and services beyond what is provided through their child’s school-based special education services.
About the Parent-Directed Special Education Services (PDSES) Program
The PDSES program provides eligible families with a one-time only $1500 grant that can be used to purchase supplemental educational goods and services from state-approved vendors. These funds are specifically designed to support students who receive special education services under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA).
Eligibility Requirements
To qualify for the Parent-Directed Special Education Services (PDSES) grant, families must meet specific criteria:
- The student must be currently enrolled in a Texas public school
- The student must be receiving special education services
- The student must have a current Individualized Education Program (IEP)
- The family must have NOT received a PDSES/SSES grant in the past.
Each eligible student may receive up to $1,500 in their PDSES account to spend on approved educational goods and services. These funds:
- Do not affect or replace existing school-based special education services
- Are supplemental to the student’s current IEP services
- Must be used within the specified grant period
- Cannot be transferred to another student
Approved Uses of Funds
Families can use Parent-Directed Special Education Services (PDSES) grant funds for various educational supports, including:
- Educational materials and supplies
- Educational technology devices and software
- Private tutoring services
- Educational therapies (speech, occupational, physical)
- Supplemental curriculum materials
- Other approved educational resources and services
Once approved, families will receive access to an online account with the funds pre-loaded to it. Then, parents can browse the approved vendors and services and make purchases directly through the platform.
Timeline and Deadlines
The PDSES application is open now through 5pm on March 31, 2025. Funds are awarded based on availability and priority status. Families should apply early as funds may be limited.
Program Requirements and Responsibilities
Parents must:
- Use funds only for approved educational purposes
- Keep detailed records of purchases
- Submit required documentation
- Report any changes in eligibility
- Complete periodic surveys or assessments
- Maintain communication with program administrators
The PDSES grant program represents a significant opportunity for families to access additional educational supports for their children with special needs. Brighton’s SESS team can review your child’s current IEP to help identify potential educational supports or therapies that may be available through the grant funds.
To learn more about the PDSES, click here.
To read frequently asked questions and submit an application, click here.
