Why I Advocate

As a teacher, I participated in many meetings about my students.  I met with specialists, psychologist, therapists, and most importantly of all I met with parents.  Like all parents, they just wanted what was best for their child.  I recall one mom in particular.  Her son struggled academically and was falling further and further behind.  Throughout every meeting she would smile and agree with what was being said.  After every meeting she would call me and ask me to explain what had happened.  She didn’t know the terms and she didn’t understand what was being decided about her son’s education.  She wanted to advocate for her son, but she didn’t know how.

Fast forward about eight years and I was the mom in the meeting.  I was the one hearing about my son’s cognitive ability score, his academic achievement results, his time on task observations, his reading evaluation, and so much more.  I was the one hearing that my child had areas of weakness, but that he didn’t qualify for special education services.  I was the one feeling powerless as decisions were made regarding my child's education. Even though I had years of teaching experience and a Masters of Arts in Teaching, I was not the advocate my child needed at the time. 

I have since become passionate about understanding parent and student rights.  I have spoken to many parents concerned about their child’s education.  These parents need guidance and support as they navigate a system that they don’t yet understand.  These parents need tools to help advocate for their children and actively participate in meetings that directly impact their child’s future success.  It is my goal to provide services and supports to parents so that their child can have the educational experience to which they are entitled.