Let's Talk About: Special Education Advocates

Special Education Advocacy is an unregulated industry. This means there is no licensure available and no government regulations for oversight. The quality of providers varies greatly. Simply stated, “buyer beware.” 

It may be better to explain what an Educational Advocate is not. An educational advocate is not a lawyer, but they are deeply knowledgeable about the laws related to education, ensuring compliance with FAPE and other regulations. They are not medical professionals, yet they thoroughly understand diagnoses, the commonly associated needs, and how the disability affects the student’s ability to be educated. Educational Advocates are not psychologists but support parents through the rollercoaster of emotions they may experience. They are skilled in managing conflict, creating cooperative environments, and encouraging communication and collaboration between school personnel and parents. In addition, Educational Advocates understand and can explain evaluations and assessments completed by psychologists and other professionals. They are not Speech Language Pathologists, Physical Therapists, or Occupational Therapists, but they are knowledgeable about these therapies, the areas of practice, and how the therapies provide support in the school system. Educational Advocates are not the star of the show. Instead, they are another voice at the table and a team player who is unwavering in their focus on the best outcome for the student. They are not policymakers but crusaders for equality and civil rights. Educational Advocates are not scientists but push for research-based programming and research schools, school systems, programming options, placements, diagnoses, etc. related to their clients.  They are not BCBAs but understand behaviors and behavioral interventions.

(Some advocates may also be the professionals mentioned above. However, those are not the roles they fill for the client when serving as an advocate.)

Educational Advocates actively support students and their parents, interpret educational jargon, and empower parents to be equal IEP team members. They are devoted, enthusiastic, client-focused consultants facilitating IEP meetings and identifying educational needs. Advocates aim to create appropriate IEPs that lead to positive outcomes, promote inclusion, ensure appropriate education, and facilitate functional living.

When deciding on an Educational Advocate, interview them before hiring them. There are several questions you should ask. Questions to ask.