Frequently Asked Questions

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Charlene serves as a special education advocate in all 50 states for students between the ages of 3-22.

• Comprehensive educational records review 
• Guidance on how to have your student evaluated for special education services
• Assist with school communications including emails and phone calls
• Make IEP recommendations based on your student's unique circumstances
• Attend IEP  meetings as your student's advocate (Zoom or other online platform)
• Facilitated IEP Meeting Request or Mediation
• Filing with the Office of Civil Rights, if necessary
• Filing of State Complaint
• Guidance through Due Process and assisting with Resolution Meetings

There are no special degrees to be a special education advocate. However, we spend countless hours dedicated to professional development to enhance the lives of the students we serve. A special education advocate is a professional who supports and advocates for the rights and needs of students with disabilities in the educational system. They work closely with students, parents, and educators to ensure that students with special needs receive appropriate services and accommodations. Special education advocates are knowledgeable about special education laws, regulations, and procedures, and they can provide guidance and assistance throughout the Individualized Education Program (IEP) process. Their role is to help parents and students understand their rights, navigate the special education system, and promote the best interests of the student. 

Here are my favorite general resources:

• IDEA - www.ed.gov/idea/
• OCR - www2.ed.gov
• ADA - www.ada.gov
• CADRE - www.cadreworks.org
• IDA - www.dyslexiaida.org

Here are my top picks for parents navigating special education looking to make connections with other parents:

• COPAA - www.copaa.org 
• The Progress Center - www.promotingprogress.org
• Wrights Law - www.wrightslaw.com/
• ERIC - https://eric.ed.gov