What Should I Be Looking For in a Special Education Advocate?

A Parent’s Guide to Selecting a Special Education Advocate in Massachusetts

Advocates can provide information about special education options and requirements, and can help you to seek a specific service or program for your child.

An advocate can help you carefully read your child’s school records, testing information, and Individualized Education Program (IEP).

If you wish, an advocate may attend Team meetings with you.

A skillful advocate who knows local schools and resources can often see solutions not immediately obvious to other people.

An advocate, most importantly, can help you to become a better advocate for your own child.

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Finding the Right Advocate for Your Family Means Asking the Right Questions.

A Good Advocate...

IS WELL-TRAINED AND KNOWS THE LAW

• Ask what kind of training the advocate has received. When? From what organization(s)? How much experience does he/she have?

• Consider asking the advocate specific questions about special education laws and regulations. Does the advocate give clear explanations?

UNDERSTANDS SCHOOLS

TAKES TIME TO KNOW YOUR CHILD

EMPOWERS YOU

UNDERSTANDS DISABILITIES

ACTS PROFESSIONALLY

It’s important to know that there is no formal certification or licensing process for advocates. Most advocates are not trained as lawyers. A well-trained advocate will help you know when you need advice from a lawyer.