For parents
Special Education Advocacy for Families
Situations families May Encounter
- You requested an evaluation and the school declined, delayed, or never responded in writing.
- Your child was found ineligible and the basis for the decision was never made clear.
- The IEP exists but isn't being followed, and progress reports say very little.
- Goals are vague, repeated year after year, or not measurable in any real sense.
- Services were reduced or changed without a clear explanation.
- You disagree with the proposed placement or setting.
- Behavior is being met with discipline instead of a behavior plan.
- Your child faces suspension and you need a manifestation determination review.
- You're unsure whether a 504 plan or an IEP is what your child needs.
- Transition planning for life after high school hasn't meaningfully begun.
Consultation
A focused conversation in which any questions you have about your child's IEP and/or special education are answered and your options are fully explored.
Records Review
A thorough review of your child's evaluations, IEP, progress data, and any parent/school correspondence, with a written summary of what the documents support
Understanding the Evaluation
A parent-friendly explanation of testing/evaluations your child has already completed — what the evaluation report reveals (e.g., strengths and areas of need) and what this means for your child
*Please note: Review and interpretation, not new testing.
Meeting Preparation
Helping you decide what to request, in what order, and what documentation supports it — so you arrive prepared and with a plan.
Meeting Attendance
Participating with you in IEP, 504, initial eligibility, or manifestation determination meetings, and making sure your concerns are heard.
What an advocate is, and is not
An advocate works to support you in understanding and navigating your child's IEP and special education as a whole. Advocacy covers the educational process: understanding evaluation data, knowing what your child's school and team is required to consider, preparing for meetings, and communicating effectively with the team.
Please note that special education advocacy does not include conducting evaluations. School psychology services — testing, eligibility determination, and the rest — are provided only under contract to public education agencies, as part of an agency's own program. For families, the work of advocacy involves reviewing and interpreting evaluations that already exist, and helping you understand them.
An educational advocate is not an attorney and does not provide legal advice or legal representation. If a situation calls for legal counsel, you will be told so directly.
No advocate can guarantee a particular eligibility decision, service, or placement — be cautious of anyone who suggests otherwise.
Get in touch
Start a Conversation
Families
Most families start with a short call describing their concerns. It helps to have the most recent evaluation, current IEP or 504 plan, recent progress reports, and any written correspondence — but nothing is required to simply talk. Please send us an email to schedule an initial phone consultation.