Are you the parent of a child with autism who is having a dispute with school staff and would like some help? Are you the parent of a child with a learning disability or another type of disability, who might need an advocate to help you get an appropriate education for your child? This article will give you 5 qualities that make a good special education advocate.
An advocate is a person who has received special training, who helps parents navigate the special education system. In some cases, the defender is a parent of a child, but this is not always the case. Before hiring an advocate, check out her experience and also make sure the advocate is familiar with your child’s disability, so that he or she can advocate effectively.
Ratings:
1 A good advocate must be familiar with the federal and state education laws that apply to special education and be willing to use them when necessary. This is the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), the state rules for special education (how they will comply with IDEA), and the No Child Left Behind Act (NCLB). The lawyer does not have to memorize the laws, but must have a basic understanding of what they contain. The advocate must also be willing to mention the law at IEP meetings, if this will benefit the child.
2. A good advocate should not make false promises to parents. If a lawyer tells you. that they will get the services you want for your child, be wary! Unfortunately, there are no guarantees in special education, and advocates should not promise things that they may not be able to deliver. An experienced advocate who knows the law and her school district should have an idea of what can be accomplished.
3. A good advocate must have a passion for your child and the educational services they need. Advocacy sometimes takes a long time. If the person helping you is not passionate about her child, she may not be willing to help you for as long as it takes for your child to receive a proper education.
4. A good advocate must be willing to stand up to special education staff when they disagree with them, or when school staff lie. If the advocate you choose has all the qualities, but is not willing to stand up to school personnel, he will not be an effective advocate for his child.
5. A good advocate pays attention to detail and makes sure that services promised by special education staff are put in writing. A good advocate will read the IEP before leaving the meeting and mention any changes that need to be made. Sometimes the little details are what make success!
By keeping these 5 qualities in mind, you will be better equipped to find an advocate who can help you get a proper education for your child.