You may be thinking about hiring a special education advocate to help your child get the services he needs in school. Knowing what an advocate can do for you is the first step.

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Special Education Advocate

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• Represents the best interests of the special needs child.

• Can help deescalate contentious relationships between parents and educators.

• Has a working-knowledge of State and Federal laws governing special education.

• Helps parents understand and enforce their rights.

• Conducts a client interview and reviews the student's complete file before the meeting.

• Will research a specific legal issue or case, if needed.

• Drafts letters and other written requests to district officials.

• Prepares parents for the IEP or 504 meeting.

• Accompanies parents to meetings and provides emotional support.

• Helps parents effectively communicate their concerns.

• Suggests appropriate goals, services, accommodations, modifications and placement to meet the student’s individual needs.

• Helps to secure appropriate eligibility, services, accommodations, modifications or placement.

• Helps interpret reports and explain their significance.

• Reviews IEP documents before you sign them.

• Drafts formal complaints to the state department of education or office of civil rights and attend mediation.

• Empowers families by helping parents and students develop their own advocacy skills.

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Learn more about what advocates at Exceptional Advocates Services can do for you!

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