Special Education Advocacy Ropes Santa Clara

There are quite a few ways to learn more about special education and how to know what to ask for and how to ask. Some of us learn out of necessity as the school districts we lived in are difficult to deal with…….at every turn they seem to put up walls and refuse to act as a team. Some school districts are staffed by people who simply don’t know the law. Other districts just do nothing.

So how can a parent inform themselves to be a better advocate for their student? Initially talk to other parents. Set up a network of parents that you can share experiences in. Not all parents are open as they believe that may jeopardize their own students placement and services……but many parents will share. Find out what others have found that works for them….find out who may be a good school contact to help the process along. This grassroots level information is invaluable.

Next, start reading. Read about your child’s particular disability. Find out what really works and how it works. Become an expert on your child and his/her needs and how they can thrive educationally. Also read about special education and how it works. The book by Pam and Pete Wright, “From Emotions to Advocacy”, is the best place to start. It is a very easy read and explains the foundations of special education. Once you begin to understand that foundation, it is much easier to know how to navigate the IEP process.

Attending local meetings is another way to become informed. Your local school board, local SELPA meetings, Parents Helping Parents and other gatherings that attract other parents is a great place to start. You never know what you might find out at these meetings. But often this can really help with the networking aspect of getting connected with other parents.

Social media is another way to find out a lot of information regarding special education and particular disabilities. Facebook has many many groups that cover just about everything and everyone. Some of the groups are emotional support oriented. Some are much more oriented towards providing solid information and legal self help. Some of the people in these groups are true advocates and their passion is to help so the information is excellent.

The biggest lesson is to not be afraid to reach out to other parents. We parents are a great way to connect, learn, and support each other. Some of us are further along the journey and can help guide the “new comers”. Most importantly, is to educate your self so that you can be the best advocate for your student.

Hire an advocate. Learn your rights.

http://www.aspireadvocacy.com

https://www.facebook.com/aspireadvocacy

As parents, we understand, As advocates, we can help.