IEP Advocate
You Dont Have To Do This Alone...
Help Your Child Succeed.
Heather Dahl-Hansen is our dedicated Reading Intervention Specialist and co-founder of DICE Reading Specialist. Heather has over 15 years of experience working in education and over a decade of elementary teaching experience. Heather has the knowledge you need get your child the help they deserve!
As a parent, all you want for your child is for them to be confident, happy and reach their potential.
Hiring an Individualized Education Program (IEP) advocate can be a crucial step in ensuring that a child with special needs receives the appropriate educational services. An IEP advocate brings expertise in special education law and the rights of students, helping parents to navigate the complex process of securing necessary accommodations for their child. They can assist in interpreting evaluations, advising on suitable educational programs, and representing the child's interests during IEP meetings. Advocates are often equipped with knowledge of disability categories, behavioral supports, and document management, which can be invaluable in advocating for a child's educational needs. Their role is distinct from that of an attorney, as they do not provide legal advice but focus on educational support and advocacy within the school system. In essence, an IEP advocate serves as a knowledgeable ally for parents, striving to ensure that a child's educational journey is tailored to their unique needs and potential.
You don’t fully understand the game the school district is playing...
The school will finally take you seriously... because they know we know our stuff!
Parents navigating the IEP process often encounter a range of challenges. One common issue is understanding the complex legal and educational terminology used in IEP documents and meetings, which can be overwhelming. Another significant hurdle is communication, as parents may struggle to effectively collaborate with educators and specialists to ensure their child's needs are met. Disagreements over the goals, accommodations, and services included in the IEP can also arise, leading to conflicts that require careful negotiation and sometimes, mediation.
Additionally, parents may face difficulties in advocating for the appropriate assessments and services due to a lack of familiarity with the process or the rights afforded to them and their child under special education law. Ensuring that the child's educational performance, including social, behavioral, and emotional domains, is adequately supported is another key challenge, especially when a child's academic performance does not appear to be impacted. These challenges underscore the importance of support, information, and advocacy throughout the IEP process to achieve the best outcomes for the child.