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1.
What is an Educational Advocate? |
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An
educational advocate is a highly trained person with specialized
knowledge about the disability or the educational process. Your
advocate should have a working knowledge of your child’s disability
and understand the special education system. An advocate is NOT
an attorney. |
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2.
What is Special Education? |
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Special
Education is “specialized instruction” to meet the individual
needs of a child with a disability. The definition comes from the
IDEA law, 34, C.F.R. Part 300 Section 300.26. |
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3.
How can an advocate help? |
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An
advocate can level the playing field when parents have IEP/ARD
meetings. The advocate’s role is to help your child
get the most appropriate education. Your advocate is not emotionally
involved, or tied to the school district staff. |
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Advocates
help the parents develop realistic goals for their child. |
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Together
your advocate can help you ensure the goals are met. |
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Advocates
know the services available in the community designed to contribute
to the child’s success. |
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4.
How much does it cost? |
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The
fee is $150 for the initial assessment. We will develop a strategic
plan together. Since each child and circumstance is unique, the
costs may very depending on how you define your needs. Fees for
services after the initial meeting are $60 per hour. All fees are
due at time of service. Outside the Dallas/Fort Worth area, there
may be travel expenses as well. |
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5.
Where else can I look for information? |
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Texas Health
Steps 1-877-847-8377 |
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TexasEducationagency
-www.tea.state.tx.us/special.ed/ |
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Advocacy Inc.-www.advocacyinc.org |
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The ARC of Texas-214-634-9810 |
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Apraxia Kids.com |
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Council of Parent
Advocates and Attorneys-www.copaa.org |
