Powerful Ways An Advocate Supports The IEP

At its core, 504 plan and IEP meetings are team meeting decisions for the educational benefit of a child with identified disabilities in the academic setting.  The 504 or IEP team includes individuals from the school and you, the parent.  In an ideal world, every 504 plan or IEP would run smoothly; however, sometimes complications can leave parents feeling like they need additional support to help them with the 504 or IEP process.  Thankfully, parents can rely on the support and guidance of advocates to assist them with making informed IEP decisions.  An advocate, also known as a 504 advocate, a special education advocate, or an IEP advocate can be an essential resource for a parent of a child with an IEP and/or 504 plan. 

Take comfort in knowing you don’t have to navigate the 504 or IEP process alone

The 504 and special education process can be a complex process. Knowing how and when to speak up for your child may seem overwhelming at times.  A good advocate is a trained professional skilled in helping you establish and maintain relationships with your child’s school, while also helping ensure your child has the right supports and services in their IEP or 504 accommodations.

Trained and Knowledgeable

IEP advocates are typically knowledgeable in federal and state laws and procedures relating to special education.  While non-attorney advocates are unable to provide legal advice, they can assist parents with being informed of their parental rights and their child’s rights within special education.  

Skilled Communicators  

We often post on the importance of communication.  Effective communication is extremely crucial within the IEP process.  A successful IEP advocate is skilled at facilitating clear collaborative communication between parents and school personnel, including knowing when and how to articulate concerns. They are also adept at asking relevant questions and confirming that the school’s responses are documented correctly. 

Ensuring the IEP is Individualized 

Advocates can also assist parents with ensuring that their child’s IEP addresses the individualized education they require. Experienced advocates are proficient in assisting in the development of goals, accommodations, supports, and services. 

Experienced in Special Education Programming

An advocate who has previous experience working with schools can provide parents with a level of expertise that can include an understanding of school programming across grade levels, schools, and a range of disabilities.  This expertise allows the advocate to effectively provide you with the support you need for your child. Remember, when you hire an advocate who has many years of training and experience, you are hiring a professional who can provide you with practical advice and support.  

Keeping Records and Collecting Data

The IEP process largely resolves around IEP documents, assessment reports, data collection, and other written communication relating to your child’s education.  The paperwork can quickly pile up and appear overwhelming.  Your advocate can show you tips and strategies for organizing and maintaining your child’s records so that it’s easily accessible when needed. They can also train you on how to keep track of your child’s progress so that you can help hold the school accountable for your child’s IEP. 

Emotional Support

Speaking up for the educational needs of your child with a disability sometimes becomes stressful and overwhelming.  Having an advocate assist you with the IEP process can provide emotional support, help reassure you, and help give you confidence. 

Attending Meetings 

The support an advocate can provide also includes attending IEP meetings and/or other educational meetings at the school or district. Having a trained professional who knows what to listen for and how to best respond can help you ensure that your meetings stay focused on your child’s needs. An advocate can assure that your concerns are heard, properly documented, and addressed. 

Accountability 

Ensuring that the IEP is properly implemented and that parent concerns and requests are followed through is another advantage of hiring an advocate to support your child’s IEP needs.  An advocate can assist you with monitoring your child’s progress and with speaking up when necessary. 

Helping Solve Conflicts

Difficulty within the IEP process can arise when parents are in disagreement with the school IEP team.  Having an advocate trained in conflict resolution and/or alternative dispute resolution practices can help you negotiate a mutual agreement with the school that is in the best interest of your child. And if mutual agreements can be achieved, the advocate can help assist you with understanding your next steps in the process. 

Parent Resources

Advocates usually have a lot of resources and training opportunities they can share with parents.  Learning about additional support or resources available can help empower you to advocate for your child.  

Why Choosing an Advocate Can Make the Necessary Difference

Hiring an advocate for your child’s IEP or 504 plan can make a significant difference in ensuring your child receives the appropriate education and support they need to succeed. An advocate can help guide you through the 504 and/or IEP process and can assist with communicating with your child’s school team.

Enabling Voices Is here to Help

If considering an advocate for your child’s educational needs, contact Enabling Voices to see how we might be able to help.