A Bit About Your Advocate
I have a son in his 20s with autism I have been advocating for my son and other families for over 18 years. I have attended as an advocate in more than 500 ARD meetings.
My primary focus is to play a part in ensuring that every child, regardless of disabling condition, has a Free and Appropriate Public Education (FAPE) in the Least Restrictive Environment (LRE). In particular, I work closely with parents who need help navigating the special education and IEP/ARD process and resolving conflict.
It can be incredibly intimidating and scary attending an IEP (Individualized Education Program) meeting. It is not uncommon for parents to sit across the table from ten-plus educators during an IEP meeting. When parents disagree with school districts, it is rarely an easy or pleasant situation. The IDEA, the law that governs special education in America, requires the equal involvement of parents and encourages input and collaboration from all parties.
