Education Advocacy
Do you need help advocating for the rights of your child who has a disability? Are you an adult who is experiencing problems with accommodation at the public school or college you are attending?
ARISE’s Education Advocate offers the support you need to ensure you or your child receives an appropriate education in the least restricted environment. Our Education Advocate works with you by providing advocacy and assistance with:
- Requesting special education testing
- Helping you understand your rights under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Improvement Act (IDEA) and 504
- Reviewing Individualized Education Plans (IEP) and 504 Plans
- Attending meetings, conferences, disciplinary hearings, and manifestation hearings
Our Education Advocate is also available for informational presentations to agencies and education professionals.
Education Advocacy services are free for people who have any type of disability. Contact us to learn more about Education Advocacy!
USEFUL RESOURCES
Back to School Tips
You have worked hard to get an IEP or 504 Plan in place for your child. Take proactive steps now to minimize any crisis that can arise later.
1. If your child has anxiety or transition concerns, visit the school and classroom before the first day of school. Go to each classroom so your child can map out their routine. The school may not give out copies of schedules until the first day, but you can call ahead and request one.
2. Review your child’s records and IEP. Did you have a CSE meeting last winter or spring? Make sure the current IEP reflects everything that was agreed upon at the previous meeting.
3. Most importantly, meet with your child's teacher(s) a couple weeks after school starts. When you meet with them, review the IEP and 504 Plan. Let them know what works and what doesn't seem to be working. This is the time to ask them about communication. Should the communication between home and the school be daily or weekly? Will we communicate by notebook, email or phone? This is the time to discuss any other concerns you have.
Other Useful Education Advocacy Resources
Syracuse University Parent Advocacy Center (SUPAC) is hosting free, useful training workshops in September. Topics include: Assistive Apps and Other Mobile Technology, Tools for Parents: Creating an Advocacy Notebook, Parent and School Partnerships, and Accommodations and Modifications. Visit SUPAC's website to learn more.