SPECIAL EDUCATION ADVOCACY

As a Special Education Advocate, I advocate for all children needing accommodations or special educational services at school.  All children deserve to learn and thrive to the best of their abilities regardless of their disability or learning differences.  Parents should feel confident that the school district and staff collaborates productively with them in developing a 504 Plan or IEP specific to their child's needs and situation. 

Each child’s best interests should be the priority and the parent's concerns should be considered in the process.  An effective educational plan will allow a student to grow, learn and improve academically.  Hiring a Special Education Advocate leads to better academic and emotional success at school.  Let's work together in making your child thrive!

"My child is struggling academically, and it is getting worse."

"Behavior is really beginning to be a problem at school."

"I asked for a 504 or IEP but the school denied my request."

"The current 504 or IEP is not making things better."

"My child is now refusing to go to school."

SPECIAL EDUCATION ADVOCATE ROLE:

Special Education Advocates represent children and their parents in the educational setting when the child requires modifications, special education or related services to learn effectively.  They will always act in the best interests of the child and serve as a voice for both the child and the parent when communicating with the school.  The process of special education and related services is guided by federal and state regulations and laws which can make the process very intimidating for most people.  While a Special Education Advocate is not an attorney, they do possess comprehensive training, skills and experience that can offer many benefits to a family navigating this complex process.  

The primary functions of an education advocate are to empower and educate parents on rights and laws so they can better advocate for their child.  They can fully represent a parent in school meetings, or coach parents through the process and provide support.  Some families prefer an advocate to take the reins, while others want support and resources so they can effectively advocate themselves.  These are decisions are a personal choice, however more complex situations may benefit more from full advocacy, while more basic situations may easily be handled by a parent with guidance from an education advocate.  

SPECIAL EDUCATION ELIGIBILITY:

In the state of Michigan, special education services include children from age 3 - 26 that require accommodations, supplementary services and special education instruction.  A 504 Plan (Section 504 of the Americans with Disabilities Act) or IEP (Individualized Education Program) is developed specific for each eligible child based on their unique needs and circumstances in the school setting.  There are clearly outlined parameters on eligibility for each plan and an advocate can help guide you regarding which plan applies to your child.  Regardless of which program your child qualifies for, an advocate can help.  

To learn more about Special Education Advocacy services offered, click here.