Are you the parent of a child with autism who is having a dispute with school personnel and you want help? Are you the parent of a child with a learning disability or other disability who might need an advocate to help you get a proper education for your child? This article will give you 5 qualities that make a good advocate for special education.
An advocate is a person who has received special training, who helps parents navigate the special education system. In some cases, the advocate is the father of a child, but this is not always the case. Before hiring an advocate, check their experience and also make sure the advocate is familiar with your child’s disability, so that you can advocate effectively.
Qualities:
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), state rules for special education (how they will comply with IDEA), and the No Child Left Behind Act (NCLB). The defender does not have to memorize the laws, but must have a basic understanding of what they contain. The advocate should also be willing to bring up the laws, at IEP meetings, if this will benefit the child.
2. A good advocate should not make false promises to parents. If an advocate tells you. they will get the services you want for your child, be suspicious! Unfortunately, there are no guarantees in special education and advocates should not promise things that they may not be able to obtain. An experienced advocate who knows the law and your school district should have an idea of what can be accomplished.
3. A good advocate must be passionate about your child and the educational services he or she needs. Promotion sometimes takes a long time. If the person helping you is not passionate about your child, they 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 confront special education personnel when you disagree with them, or when school personnel lie. If the advocate you choose has all the qualities, but is unwilling to stand up to school staff, they will not be an effective advocate for your child.
5. A good advocate is detail-oriented and ensures that the 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 it’s the little details that make for 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.
