It is easy to be overwhelmed at a CSE meeting. An advocate can make sure your ideas, suggestions and concerns are heard. The special education process is full of complex terms and laws. Advocates help make sure that you understand them and make them work for your child. Evaluations are lengthy and complicated. Advocates review your child’s records and help you understand them. They also suggest further evaluations and what services/programs can be requested for your child. The IEP is a contract between you and the school. Advocates teach you how to review the IEP and make sure nothing is omitted. IEP goals need to be measurable and specific. Advocates can help write goal suggestions to ensure your input and review the District’s goals to ensure they are complete. It is important to have someone who can keep a record of events. CSE meetings and other issues with the district are emotional. Having an advocate by your side can keep you calm. It is easier to collaborate to ensure your child’s success from a level headed position. Advocates review your documents and see what is missing and help you understand your options. Advocate’s charge less than half what a special education attorney does and can help you in many of the same ways. A lawyer means involving district’s attorney and discussions can become adversarial. Often bringing an advocate can keep the process more collaborative.
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