Hire a top IEP advocate, and maximize your child's education
You're not alone
Millions of parents face these common challenges.
Feeling Outnumbered in IEP Meetings
It's hard to speak up when you're sitting alone across from a team of school staff. Many parents leave IEP meetings feeling unheard, worried their child's needs are still not being met.
Understanding Your Parental Rights
Stacks of IEP documents and confusing terms leave many parents feeling lost. It's hard to know what your child is actually entitled to or how to get the help they need.
Getting Appropriate Support Services
You see your child falling behind, but asking for help feels like running in circles. Many parents don't know what services to request or how to push the school to take action.
Making Your Voice Be Heard
You've voiced concerns, but the school's responses feel dismissive. Parents often need support to make sure the school listens and takes their child's needs seriously.
An advocate can help
Advocates work alongside you to secure the support your child needs to thrive in school.
Get Appropriate Services
Secure essential accommodations, specialized instruction, and support services your child needs to succeed
Protect Your Rights
Ensure the school follows legal requirements and provides all services documented in your child's IEP
Track Real Progress
Monitor your child's growth with meaningful goals and regular progress updates you can understand
Build Better Relationships
Transform difficult school meetings into productive partnerships focused on your child's success
We help parents find the right advocate
We connect you with an advocate specialized in your child's unique needs. We consider:
Grade Level
Get help with early childhood, elementary, middle, high school, and beyond.
Urgency
Get help immediately, within a few days, or later.
Location
Get help with your state's special education laws and regulations.
Disability
Get help with your child's disability and unique needs.
Find help for your child's unique situation
View all advocatesWhat Parents Are Saying
"They simplify the process so you can be your own advocate without spending an arm and a leg."
"The team was knowledgeable, informative, and supportive. It was evident that they cared about the best interest of the children they serve."
"This service has been so helpful to me as a parent of a child in the public school system. It has helped me know what to advocate for to help my child thrive."
"Such a knowledgeable and incredible team that helps empower parents and educate them on how to best advocate for their child."
"Great place to go for empowering parents to set their student up for success! They are so knowledgeable and informative ~ they really care about each student!"
Search by state
Find advocates with deep local and state knowledge. We're expanding nationwide!
Find an IEP Advocate in Florida
Expert advocates in Miami, Orlando, Tampa, Jacksonville, and throughout Florida helping families with special education services.
Find an IEP Advocate in California
Experienced advocates in Los Angeles, San Francisco, San Diego, Sacramento, and throughout California helping families with special education services.
Find an IEP Advocate in Georgia
Expert advocates in Atlanta, Savannah, Athens, and throughout Georgia helping families with special education services.
Find an IEP Advocate in Illinois
Dedicated advocates in Chicago, Springfield, Aurora, and throughout Illinois helping families navigate special education services.
Find an IEP Advocate in Indiana
Expert advocates in Indianapolis, Fort Wayne, South Bend, and throughout Indiana helping families with special education services.
Find an IEP Advocate in Kentucky
Experienced advocates in Louisville, Lexington, Bowling Green, and across Kentucky helping families with IEP and special education advocacy.
Find an IEP Advocate in Maryland
Professional advocates in Baltimore, Columbia, Silver Spring, and throughout Maryland supporting families with special education needs.
Find an IEP Advocate in Pennsylvania
Skilled advocates in Philadelphia, Pittsburgh, Harrisburg, and across Pennsylvania providing IEP meeting support and advocacy.
Find an IEP Advocate in Texas
Experienced advocates in Houston, Dallas, Austin, San Antonio, and across Texas supporting families with IEP and 504 plan needs.
Don't see your state? Get virtual help anywhere!
Many of our advocates work virtually and can help you wherever you are. Get expert support from the comfort of your home.
Common Questions About Special Education Advocacy
You might want to consider working with an advocate if you're experiencing any of these situations:
- You feel overwhelmed or outnumbered during school meetings
- Your child isn't making progress despite having an IEP or 504 Plan
- The school promised services that haven't materialized
- You're having ongoing disagreements with the school team
- You need help understanding your child's educational rights
- Your child is transitioning to a new school or grade level
- You're considering requesting an evaluation
- Your child's needs have changed and the current plan isn't working
An IEP advocate works alongside you to ensure your child gets the support they need. They help by:
- Attending IEP meetings with you as a knowledgeable support person
- Breaking down complex educational terms and legal rights into plain language
- Reviewing and helping develop effective IEPs with meaningful goals
- Suggesting appropriate accommodations based on your child's needs
- Helping resolve disagreements with the school constructively
- Teaching you how to be a more effective advocate for your child
- Monitoring progress and ensuring services are being delivered
- Helping you understand evaluation results and reports
Finding the right advocate is crucial for a successful partnership. Look for:
- Experience with your child's specific challenges or disabilities
- Deep knowledge of special education laws and procedures
- A communication style that matches your preferences
- A track record of successful advocacy and positive references
- Someone who focuses on collaborative solutions with schools
- Familiarity with your school district or state regulations
- Clear explanation of their services and fee structure
- Availability that matches your needs and timeline
Quality advocacy services typically include:
- Thorough review of your child's educational history and records
- Development of specific strategies to address your concerns
- Support before, during, and after school meetings
- Help with written communication and documentation
- Regular progress updates and strategy adjustments
- Training to help you become a stronger advocate
- Guidance on understanding your rights and options
- Support in building positive relationships with the school team
Advocacy costs vary based on several factors:
- Most advocates charge between $75-200 per hour
- Many offer package rates for specific services
- Initial consultations are often free
- Some provide sliding scale fees based on family income
- Many offer payment plans or flexible payment options
- Some organizations provide pro bono services for eligible families
- Package rates might include document review and meeting attendance
- Virtual services may cost less than in-person support
While both professionals help families with special education needs, they serve different roles:
- Advocates work collaboratively within the school system
- Attorneys provide legal representation when needed
- Advocate services typically cost less than legal services
- Advocates focus on practical solutions and relationship building
- Attorneys become involved when legal action is necessary
- Many families work with advocates first and only consult attorneys if needed
- Advocates can often prevent the need for legal intervention
- Some situations may benefit from both advocate and attorney support
The timeline for starting advocacy services varies:
- Most advocates can begin within 1-2 weeks of initial contact
- Urgent situations may qualify for expedited support
- The process typically starts with a consultation
- Record review may take a few days to a week
- Strategy development follows record review
- Virtual services often have shorter wait times
- It's best to reach out before situations become urgent
- Some advocates offer immediate phone consultations
Yes, advocates regularly help families address service implementation issues:
- They review your child's IEP/504 Plan for clarity
- Help document any gaps in service delivery
- Suggest practical solutions for implementation challenges
- Work with the school team to get services back on track
- Help you understand your options if services remain inadequate
- Assist in developing monitoring systems
- Guide you in effective communication about service concerns
- Help ensure compensatory services if needed
Understanding Your Rights in Special Education
As a parent, you have specific legal rights to ensure your child receives appropriate educational services. Here's what you need to know:
Your Rights at a Glance
The law provides you with specific rights and protections to ensure you can actively participate in your child's education. These rights, called "procedural safeguards," are your guardrails for navigating the special education system.
Key Things to Remember:
- You have the right to be involved in all decisions about your child's education
- The school must get your permission before certain actions
- You can disagree with the school's decisions and take action
- There are multiple ways to resolve disagreements
Evaluation & Communication Rights
Independent Educational Evaluations
If you disagree with the school's evaluation, you can request an independent evaluation at public expense. The school must either provide the evaluation or show their evaluation was appropriate through a hearing.
- You can choose your own qualified evaluator
- The school must consider the results
- You can request evaluation criteria
Prior Written Notice
Schools must inform you in writing before making changes to your child's special education services. This includes:
- Proposed changes to identification, evaluation, or placement
- Changes to services or supports
- Refusal of your requests
Access to Records
You have the right to review all of your child's educational records:
- Request copies of any records
- Ask for explanations of the records
- Have your representative review records
Consent & Decision-Making Rights
Parental Consent Requirements
The school needs your written permission for:
- Initial evaluation and re-evaluations
- Starting special education services
- Changes to services or placement
- You can withdraw consent at any time
Participation in Meetings
You have the right to participate in all meetings about:
- Evaluation and eligibility decisions
- IEP development and placement
- You can invite others with knowledge or expertise
Private School Placement
Under specific circumstances, you may be entitled to private school reimbursement:
- If the public school can't provide appropriate services
- Must generally notify the school of your intent
- Specific requirements and timelines apply
Dispute Resolution Rights
Filing Complaints
You have multiple options if you disagree with the school:
- State complaints (for violations of special education law)
- Due process complaints (for disputes about services)
- Different timelines and procedures apply for each
Mediation & Resolution
Free mediation is available to resolve disputes:
- Voluntary process with a neutral mediator
- Can be faster than formal complaints
- Helps maintain working relationships
Due Process Hearings
If other methods don't resolve the issue:
- Formal hearing with evidence presentation
- Right to attorney representation
- Can appeal decisions to court
Need help understanding or exercising your rights?
Our advocates can help you navigate the special education system and ensure your rights are protected.
Get help at every stage
New milestones bring new challenges. We've got you covered:
Early Intervention & Preschool
The foundation years where early support can make the biggest difference in your child's development.
Key Focus Areas
- Developmental screenings and evaluations
- Early intervention services (speech, OT, PT)
- Transition from early intervention to preschool
Key Support & Services
Early Intervention Programs
Access to specialized services including speech therapy, occupational therapy, and physical therapy through state-funded programs.
Developmental Screenings
Regular evaluations of speech, motor skills, social-emotional development, and cognitive abilities to identify needs early.
Preschool Special Education
Specialized preschool programs with integrated therapies and support for a smooth transition to kindergarten.
Available Resources
- IDEA Part C Early Intervention
- Head Start & Early Head Start
- State-Specific Preschool Programs
Elementary Education
Building fundamental academic and social skills while ensuring appropriate accommodations are in place.
Key Focus Areas
- Initial IEP development and implementation
- Learning accommodations and modifications
- Social skills development and support
Key Support & Services
Academic Support Programs
Specialized reading, writing, and math interventions tailored to your child's learning style, including multi-sensory approaches and evidence-based programs.
Classroom Accommodations
Individualized modifications like extended time, preferential seating, assistive technology, and modified assignments to support learning success.
Progress Monitoring
Regular assessment and tracking of IEP goals, with quarterly progress reports and annual reviews to ensure educational growth.
Available Resources
- Reading Intervention Programs
- Assistive Technology Tools
- Behavioral Support Plans
Middle School Transition
Navigating increased academic demands while developing independence and self-advocacy skills.
Key Focus Areas
- Academic modifications and study skills
- Social-emotional support and peer relationships
- Executive functioning and organization
Key Support & Services
Executive Function Support
Strategies and tools for organization, time management, and study skills to help students navigate multiple classes and increased workload.
Social-Emotional Support
Counseling services, social skills groups, and peer mentoring programs to help with social relationships and emotional well-being.
Academic Accommodations
Subject-specific modifications, testing accommodations, and assistive technology to support success across different content areas.
Available Resources
- Executive Function Tools
- Social Skills Programs
- Study Skills Support
High School Years
Preparing for post-secondary success while balancing academic achievement and life skills development.
Key Focus Areas
- Transition planning and goal setting
- College preparation and accommodations
- Career exploration and vocational training
Key Support & Services
Transition Planning
Comprehensive planning for post-secondary education, employment, and independent living, including career assessments and goal setting.
College Preparation
Support for college applications, SAT/ACT accommodations, and guidance on accessing disability services in higher education.
Self-Advocacy Training
Development of skills to understand and communicate needs, manage accommodations, and navigate support systems independently.
Available Resources
- College Planning Tools
- Vocational Programs
- Testing Accommodations
Transition to Adulthood
Supporting the shift to independence through continued education or career preparation.
Key Focus Areas
- Post-secondary education support
- Employment and career development
- Independent living skills
Key Support & Services
Adult Support Services
Access to vocational rehabilitation, supported employment programs, and adult disability services for continued support after high school.
Independent Living Skills
Training in life skills, money management, transportation, and daily living activities to promote independence and self-sufficiency.
Legal and Financial Planning
Guidance on guardianship options, benefits planning, and accessing adult services to ensure long-term support and stability.
Available Resources
- Vocational Rehabilitation
- Adult Support Programs
- Benefits Planning
Don't navigate these critical years alone
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