EPICS is a Community Parent Resource Center serving New Mexico families who have Native American children with disabilities or developmental delays.

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What is EPICS?

Education for Parents of Indigenous Children with Special Needs, EPICS, is a non-profit 501 (C) (3) organization established July 2009. EPICS originally started in response to a need expressed by Native American Parents who were concerned about their children entering the BIE and NM School System regarding Special Education and lack of representation. They wanted support and advocacy from such organization that understood their issues, culture, and teach them advocacy skills. 

Today, EPICS continues to meet the founder’s vision to specifically serve families of Native American Children with Disabilities, Developmental Delays, Special Healthcare Needs, and Deaf or Hard of Hearing. EPICS serves Native American children from birth to 26 years old. EPICS is recognized as a community parent resource center providing comprehensive training that focus on advocacy, leadership, support, and capacity building with the highest standards, accountability and continuous improvement. Training is provided to educate parents on their rights, responsibilities and protections as they develop their skills necessary to effectively participate in the planning and decision making relating to Early Intervention, Educational and Transitional Services to meet their child’s specific and unique needs.

What is our Mission?

EPICS aims to assist families to influence change in their communities to maximize positive outcomes for children with disabilities and special healthcare needs.

What is our Vision?

All children will flourish in healthy families, schools, and communities.

How do we achieve our mission?

Respecting each family's unique culture and experiences, we provide a circle of support that includes partnerships, resources, advocacy and opportunities for Family Leadership.

Positive Outcomes:
1) Cultural responsiveness & Spirituality – Each family is unique and has its own culture,
2) Community Integration & Partnerships – Relationships are reciprocal and built on trust,
3) Self-Determination and Self-Advocacy – Families to be agents of change to be engaged and advocates to address systemic issues
4) Integrity & Quality – Services are provided with the highest of standard, accountability and continuous improvement.

Knowing Your Parental Rights

In order for a parent to make an informed decision, he/she desires to have the right information to make the right choices for their child or family. This is essential when building and maintaining relationships with families. Parents also deserve the opportunity to exercise their rights when faced with irresolvable issues or concerns related to their children.
Parental Rights

Native Education and Disability

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