Working With Parent Advocates in Special Education

Abstract

When parents seek special education support, they are met with a complex system dictated by county and state jurisdictions and governed by federal law. The system contains processes and jargon that can be overwhelming and challenging. The role of an advocate is to work with the family to ensure that a child's educational needs are met. This position includes but is not limited to empowering parents by advising them about services, programs, and accommodations that will help meet their children's unique learning needs. The role of the individualized education program (IEP) team chairperson is to lead the committee process and include all stakeholders as equal and valued members of the committee. As an educational leader, it is essential to understand the role of the advocate as both a liaison to parents and a thought partner to the IEP team to help them consider eligibility criteria and federal mandates.