A facilitator's manual for a surrogate parent training program, which focuses on the concepts, attitudes, and skills necessary to successfully represent handicapped children in educational decision making processes, is provided. It is explained that the training program is divided into five sections comprising approximately 40 to 50 hours of instruction. Section 1 identifies state laws including the main features and provision of each in relation to the education of handicapped children. In Section 2 federal laws are described which mandate special education. Surrogate parenting is the focus of Section 3, which examines the responsibilities of a surrogate parent in representing a child in the educational decision making process. Section 4 discusses the categories of exceptionality and the educational programing options available in the schools. The final section considers due process, mediation, hearing, and appeal procedures within the state, and the role of the surrogate parent in the process. Each component contains objectives, activities, and suggested instructional and media materials for use by either trainer or participant. Bibliographies on due process and materials of interest to parents, as well as lists of agencies involved with due process and a program evaluation form are appended. (PHR)