Frequently asked questions

A special education advocate is a professional who helps families navigate the special education process. Advocates ensure that children receive the services and accommodations they are entitled to under the law, offering expertise in IEPs, 504 plans, and educational rights.

An advocate is particularly helpful if you feel your child’s needs aren’t being met by the school, if you're facing resistance to getting services, or if you need support understanding your child’s IEP or 504 plan. It’s also beneficial to have an advocate present during IEP meetings for clarity and expert guidance

An advocate provides expertise in special education laws, the IEP process, and school systems, but they do not practice law. Attorneys, however, are licensed to provide legal advice and represent you in due process hearings or lawsuits. Advocates focus more on collaboration and negotiation with schools.

An advocate ensures that your child's rights are protected and that the IEP accurately reflects their needs. They help explain educational terms, suggest appropriate goals, and make sure the school is held accountable for providing necessary services. They act as both a guide and a voice for the family.

Your child may qualify for special education services if they have a disability that impacts their ability to access the general curriculum. The school must conduct an evaluation to determine eligibility under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA). If you believe your child needs services, an advocate can guide you through requesting an evaluation.

An IEP (Individualized Education Program) is a legal document for students who qualify for special education services under IDEA, offering tailored goals and accommodations. A 504 Plan, under Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act, provides accommodations for students with disabilities that do not require specialized instruction but still need support to access the general curriculum.

An advocate can review your child's records, identify gaps in services, and help you request additional evaluations. They work with the school to ensure your child’s needs are met and, if necessary, escalate the issue through mediation or due process. Advocates can also suggest independent evaluations to support your case.

Bring all relevant documentation, such as your child’s evaluations, previous IEPs, medical reports, and any work samples that demonstrate their progress or challenges. An advocate can help you organize these documents and highlight the most important points during the meeting.

Yes, you have the right to request an IEP review at any time if you feel changes need to be made. You can ask for revisions to goals, services, or accommodations based on your child’s progress. An advocate can assist in making these requests and negotiating changes.

You have the right to request an Independent Educational Evaluation (IEE) at the school’s expense if you disagree with their evaluation. An advocate can help guide you through this process, ensuring the evaluation accurately reflects your child’s needs and provides the right data for IEP decisions.

The IEP must be reviewed annually, but you can request a meeting at any time if you believe adjustments are needed. The IEP team will review your child’s progress, update goals, and modify services as necessary. An advocate ensures this process remains thorough and aligned with your child’s needs.

If the school is not implementing the IEP as written, you can request an IEP meeting to discuss the issue. An advocate can help document non-compliance and work with the school to resolve the problem. In cases of persistent issues, you may consider filing a formal complaint or pursuing legal action, with guidance from an attorney if needed.

Transition planning is a critical component of an IEP for students nearing the end of high school. An advocate can ensure that your child’s IEP includes appropriate transition goals, vocational assessments, and plans for post-secondary education or employment. They help facilitate coordination between schools and outside agencies to support a smooth transition into adulthood.

If the school is unwilling to provide additional services, an advocate can help you present data and evidence to support your request. They may suggest requesting additional evaluations or adjustments to the current IEP to address your concerns. Advocacy ensures that your child’s needs are not overlooked due to administrative hurdles.

Advocates are skilled at bridging the communication gap between parents and schools. They provide clarity on educational terms, facilitate productive discussions during meetings, and ensure that both parties understand the goals and expectations. An advocate helps maintain a collaborative and respectful relationship focused on your child’s best interests.