
Advocacy Services
My goal is to stand beside families navigating the complexities of special education. With over a decade of hands-on experience in the classroom and IEP process, I can empower parents to confidently advocate for their child's unique needs. My mission: Strength through advocacy - ensuring every voice is heard and every student has access to the support they deserve.
FAQs
Navigating the world of special education can feel overwhelming. My mission is to support families by providing expert special education advocacy services that protect your child’s rights and help them thrive in school.
General Sped Advocacy
-
A special education advocate is a trained professional who helps families navigate the special education system. Advocates support parents by reviewing documents, attending school meetings, helping with IEP and 504 plans, and ensuring schools provide the services your child is legally entitled to.
-
We help you understand your child’s rights, clarify school responsibilities, review evaluations and plans, and communicate effectively with your school district. Our goal is to ensure your child receives a free appropriate public education (FAPE) as guaranteed under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act.
-
Advocacy helps families of students with:
Learning disabilities (e.g., dyslexia, dysgraphia)
Autism Spectrum Disorder
ADHD
Emotional or behavioral challenges
Speech/language disorders
Physical or developmental delays
Other diagnosed or suspected disabilities
-
An IEP (Individualized Education Program) provides specialized instruction and services under IDEA, while a 504 Plan provides accommodations under Section 504. An advocate can help determine which plan is appropriate and ensure it's implemented correctly.
Understanding Your Child’s Rights
-
Every child with a disability is entitled to a free appropriate public education (FAPE) in the least restrictive environment (LRE). Your child has rights to evaluations, parental involvement, individualized planning, accommodations, and procedural protections under IDEA and Section 504.
-
Students with disabilities have protections when facing suspensions or expulsions. If your child has an IEP or 504 Plan, we’ll help you request a manifestation determination and ensure the school is following required legal procedures.
-
If the school refused to evaluate your child or denied eligibility, we can help file a written request, request a re-evaluation, and/or pursue dispute resolution. You don’t have to face this alone.
School Meetings & Advocacy Support
-
Yes! We provide in-person and virtual representation during IEP meetings, eligibility meetings, 504 Plan meetings, MDRs (Manifestation Determination Reviews), and more. We help ensure your voice is heard and that your child’s needs are clearly communicated.
-
We recommend bringing:
Evaluation reports and assessments
Your child’s current IEP or 504 Plan
Work samples or report cards
Medical or therapeutic documentation
A list of your questions or concerns
We’ll also help you prepare a parent input statement and review any documents ahead of time.
-
You have the right to request an Independent Educational Evaluation (IEE) at the public school’s expense. We’ll help guide you through that request and connect you with qualified evaluators if needed.
-
Yes. While we are not attorneys, we assist in preparing for special education mediation, resolution sessions, and due process hearings. We collaborate with legal professionals if your case requires legal representation.
Working with a Special Education Advocate
-
Our advocates are trained in special education law, IEP development, disability rights, and effective school collaboration. Some have backgrounds in education, psychology, or legal studies. All are passionate about helping students succeed.
-
We offer several options:
Hourly consultations
Flat-fee meeting support
Comprehensive advocacy packages
Fees vary based on the level of support, and we are happy to provide an estimate during a free consultation.
-
Yes. We serve families both in person and virtually, allowing us to support clients across multiple school districts and states. All document reviews, strategy sessions, and meeting participation can be done online.
-
Schedule a free 15–30 minute consultation through our website or by phone. We’ll listen to your concerns, review your situation, and outline how we can support your child’s educational needs.
