Sending your child to school can be an exciting experience for both parents and child. However, very few parents know the options they have when their child struggles in school. It is important to learn your rights and the options afforded to your family through the school system. We will be there to complete all tasks needed to best advocate for your child in supporting their educational, mental, and emotional needs.
Primary Purposes of Special Education Advocates
Facilitate Communication:
- Act as a liaison between parents and school staff, helping to bridge communication gaps.
- Ensure that parents understand school policies, procedures, and expectations.
- Assist in translating educational jargon and providing clear explanations of academic programs and services.
Empower Parents:
- Educate parents about their rights and responsibilities within the school system.
- Provide training and resources to help parents advocate for their children's educational needs.
- Encourage active parental involvement in school activities and decision-making processes.
Support Diverse Families
- Address the unique needs of families from diverse cultural, linguistic, and socioeconomic backgrounds.
- Provide culturally sensitive support and resources to ensure all families feel welcomed and included.
- Advocate for equitable access to educational opportunities for all students.
Promote Student Success:
- Work with parents and educators to develop and implement strategies that support student achievement.
- Help parents understand and navigate special education services, individualized education plans (IEPs), and other support programs.
- Advocate for appropriate accommodations and resources to meet the needs of students with disabilities or learning challenges.
Resolve Conflicts:
- Mediate conflicts between parents and school staff to find mutually agreeable solutions.
- Assist in addressing concerns related to bullying, disciplinary actions, and other issues affecting students.
- Provide guidance on dispute resolution processes and support parents through formal complaint procedures if necessary.
Enhance Home-School Partnerships:
- Foster strong, collaborative relationships between families and schools.
- Encourage regular, meaningful communication and collaboration between parents and teachers.
- Support parent-teacher organizations (PTOs) and other initiatives that promote family engagement.
Advocate for Systemic Change:
- Work towards creating a more inclusive and responsive educational system.
- Advocate for policy changes that benefit students and families at the local, district, and state levels.
- Collaborate with other advocates and organizations to address broader educational issues and promote systemic improvements.
Provide Emotional and Practical Support:
- Offer emotional support and reassurance to parents navigating the complexities of the school system.
- Connect families with community resources, such as counseling services, financial assistance programs, and extracurricular activities.
- Help parents manage stress and anxiety related to their children's education.
School Services Include
- All correspondence with your child's school to begin and complete the 504 or Individual Education Plan (IEP) process.
- Attendance at official 504 or IEP meetings.
- Explanation for all tests/assessments given to your child.
- Accommodation recommendations for your child based on expert opinion.
- Parental support with your child's 504 or IEP throughout the school year.
Tutoring
Tutoring services offer a valuable resource for students seeking to improve their academic performance and gain confidence in their abilities. By providing individualized support and practical strategies, tutoring can lead to lasting positive changes in a student’s educational journey.
1. Individualized Instruction
- Tailored lessons that address the specific needs and learning styles of each student.
- Focused attention to help students overcome challenges and master difficult concepts.
2. Flexible Scheduling
- Sessions scheduled at convenient times to accommodate students' busy lives.
- Options for in-person or online tutoring to suit different preferences.
3. Comprehensive Support
- Assistance with homework, test preparation, and study strategies.
- Focus on both short-term goals (e.g., upcoming exams) and long-term academic success.
4. Improved Academic Performance
- Enhanced understanding of subject matter leading to better grades.
- Development of effective study habits and learning techniques.