_edited.png)
Advocacy & Consulting Services
Every student is unique and every need is different. There is no one-size-fits-all plan that meets the needs of every student especially during this unprecedented time. The landscape of special education is changing daily.
A Special Education Advocate should know and understand the most recent Federal and State laws, regulations and guidances pertaining to Special Education services. In addition, an advocate must be familiar with the policies and procedures used in your school district. I tailor and customize all available services to fit the specific needs of the individual child and family. Please contact me regarding services and rates and how I can help you within the current environment.
Consultation
Parents are natural advocates for their children. After all, who is more concerned about their future? Parents do not have to go it alone. I am here to be a resource to help parents become effective advocates for their child’s education. The first step in the special education process is to have a one-on-one consultation, regarding your child's current school situation, developmental history, and review the services in which I may provide support.
IEP / Section 504 Meetings
It is not always easy to speak up about what your child needs. Understanding the available to your child can boost your confidence. This may take time. However, gathering information and asking questions along the way may yield big dividends for your child. My goal is to provide you with knowledge and assist you to be empowered and involved in developing and monitoring your child’s IEP program/services and other education plans.
OCR and State Complaint Support
OCR makes a difference in the lives of students. I will help formulate your concerns and requests for services, review & revise current goals, and advise as to what documentation you may need. I will provide support, which may include assistance with problem solving, mediation, or filing a State complaint.
Communication Letters
Working with the school is a negotiation, and it is a team collaborative effort. The goal is to provide your child with the services he or she needs. I will assist in drafting effective educational records request, document parental concerns, and review communications with the school. My focus is to work to secure appropriate services for your child.
Early Intervention Support
Special education law requires that districts, upon receiving a referral from Early Intervention (EI), complete an evaluation and make a determination of eligibility and, if the child is determined eligible, implement the IEP by the child's third birthday. I am available at any point during the EI process.
Mediation & Document Review
When parents and the school district disagree about the educational needs of a student, either party can request mediation. If there is a disagreement between you and the school district concerning your child’s needs, I will help you work to resolve the issue. As a team, I will review your records and show you how to navigate through the special education process for your present needs, as well as future concerns.
Transition Planning
Transition planning is a critical step in the special education process. It's an essential part to prepare the student for life beyond the environment of school. Our goal is to attain services from the school to prepare students on their journey of post-secondary education, employment and independent living.
Observations & Referrals
Observing a student in his or her placement is crucial. This allows an individual to see what is occurring in the current setting. I am available for school visits, to observe interactions with peers, the appropriateness of peers, review curriculum and interventions.