Frequently Asked Questions

EAA has resolved these concerns and more with parents in over 40 states! 

Sound familiar to you? 

  • School districts denying or ignoring requests to evaluate for dyslexia or any other disabilities for that matter. 

  • Families told because their child has good grades, they are ineligible for a 504 Plan or IEP despite other concerns. Not true! 

  • Children are repeatedly sent home due to behavioral issues or are being removed from their classroom and placed into a more restrictive setting, with parents being told they have no other options. Again, not true! 

  • The most common reason we’re hired: The IEP or 504 Plan is not being followed or the district will not increase the level of support the parent believes the child needs.

Knowledge and Responsibilities of Special Education Advocates

Review and explain educational records, including evaluations, IEPs, and progress reports.

Identify helpful services and supports; objectively analyze the quality of a child's education program.

Assist parents in organizing materials and staying organized.

Attend meetings related to a child's special education program, such as IEP or IFSP discussions.

Help parents write appropriate IEP/IFSP goals and suggest supports and accommodations.

Accompany parents to meetings and assist in negotiations with the school.

Review important documents, like the IEP, before parents sign them.

Assist in drafting letters and requests to schools or EI agencies.

Explain dispute resolution procedures and assess the strength of a case; refer to a special education attorney if needed.

Teach parents to be effective advocates and help children become more independent and self-advocating.

FAQs

  • Education Advocates of America (EAA) has successfully resolved these concerns and more with parents in over 40 states. If any of the following situations sound familiar, you may benefit from the support of an advocate:

    School districts denying or ignoring requests for evaluations: If your requests for evaluations for dyslexia or other disabilities are being denied or ignored, an advocate can help ensure your child's needs are properly assessed.

    Eligibility concerns despite good grades: If you've been told that your child is ineligible for a 504 Plan or IEP due to good grades, despite other concerns, this is not true. An advocate can help clarify eligibility criteria and ensure your child receives the necessary support.

    Behavioral issues leading to restrictive settings: If your child is being repeatedly sent home due to behavioral issues or placed in a more restrictive setting with no other options provided, an advocate can help explore alternative solutions and ensure your child's rights are upheld.

    IEP or 504 Plan not being followed: If the IEP or 504 Plan is not being implemented as agreed, or if the district is unwilling to increase the level of support your child needs, an advocate can work with you to address these issues.

  • An Individualized Education Program (IEP) is a customized plan designed to meet the unique educational needs of a child with a disability. It outlines specific goals, accommodations, and services to support the child's learning. An advocate can help ensure the IEP is tailored to your child's needs and is effectively implemented.

  • A 504 Plan provides accommodations and modifications to support students with disabilities in a general education setting. Unlike an IEP, it does not require specialized instruction. An advocate can help determine which plan is most appropriate for your child and ensure it is properly executed.

  • An advocate can accompany you to school meetings, providing support and guidance. They help ensure your concerns are heard, facilitate communication with school staff, and work towards a collaborative solution that benefits your child.

  • During a consultation, an advocate will listen to your concerns, review any existing plans or documentation, and discuss potential strategies to address your child's needs. They will provide guidance on next steps and how they can support you throughout the process.

  • To get started, contact us for a free consultation. We'll discuss your concerns, explore your options, and develop a plan to support your child's educational journey.

  • We arrange remote meetings, allowing you to join virtually from anywhere. This approach enables us to work nationwide, ensuring that you can participate in our meetings no matter where you are located.

  • There is no wrong time to hire an advocate, but the earlier you do it, the better. Engaging an advocate early in the process can provide you with valuable guidance and support, helping to navigate your child's 504 plans and IEPs and ensure they get the best education possible.

Quick Tips from Jamie

Check out these videos for explanations of common misconceptions and/or little-known facts when it comes to advocating for yourself and your child.

Oral Reading Fluency Score + Phonemic Awareness Ability

Requesting Rating Scales

Ask for a PWN

An Advocate is Not Just for When You're Unhappy

Changing a Meeting Date