Special Education Advocacy
Navigating special education can feel like fighting a system designed to say no. AdvocatED helps parents understand IEP and 504 plan processes, challenge denials, and ensure schools provide the services and accommodations your child is entitled to under federal law.
Schools don't always get special education right, and parents shouldn't have to become experts in federal education law to get their child what they need. We bridge that gap.
Ensuring IEP goals are appropriate, services are sufficient, and the plan actually addresses your child's needs, not just what the school finds convenient to offer.
When schools deny a 504 plan or provide accommodations that don't actually help, we help families challenge these decisions and get meaningful support in place.
If you disagree with the school's evaluation of your child, you have the right to request an Independent Educational Evaluation (IEE). We help families navigate this process.
The law requires placement in the least restrictive environment. If the school is placing your child in a more restrictive setting than necessary, we help you challenge that decision.
When informal resolution fails, IDEA provides formal due process complaint procedures. We help families prepare and navigate these proceedings.
Students with IEPs and 504 plans have specific protections when facing school discipline, including manifestation determination reviews. We ensure schools follow these requirements.
Federal law makes parents equal participants in the IEP process, not observers. Your input about your child's needs, strengths, and challenges must be considered. If you feel your voice isn't being heard, that's a problem we can help address.
Under IDEA, you have the right to bring anyone with knowledge or expertise about your child to IEP meetings. An experienced advocate changes the dynamic, schools are more likely to follow proper procedures and offer appropriate services when an informed advocate is present.
Disagree with an evaluation? Request an independent one. Disagree with a placement? Request mediation or file a due process complaint. The law provides multiple avenues for parents to challenge school decisions, most parents just don't know they exist.
Every child with a disability is entitled to a Free Appropriate Public Education. "Appropriate" doesn't mean minimal, it means education that allows meaningful progress. If your child is falling behind despite having an IEP, the plan may not be providing FAPE.
Guides for families navigating IEP and 504 plan disputes, K-12 suspensions, and discipline that involves a student with a disability.
Contact AdvocatED for a free case review. We'll help you understand your child's rights and build a plan to get them the services they need.