Ten Things an Education Advocate Should Do!

  1. Contact the school and ask for copies of the student’s IEP, progress and evaluation report.
  2. Introduce yourself to the student, the teacher(s) and resource parents. Explain your role.
  3. Inquire about the current needs and the strengths of the student.
  4. Contact the case manager or family support worker to get some background and history.
  5. Attend school meetings!
    • You have the right to have IEP meetings scheduled at a mutually agreed upon time.
    • You have the right to have a 10-day prior written notice of an IEP meeting.
  6. Figure out ways to stay engaged throughout the school year.
  7. Contact Families Together Topeka Center when the student:
    • Moves
    • Is legally adopted
    • Is Appointed a legal guardian
    • Is signed out of special education services
    • Graduates or leaves public school
    • Does not qualify following an evaluation
  8. Consider observing the student at school or attending a school program.
  9. Contact the Families Together center nearest you for an individual consultation about your student’s educational program.
  10. Enjoy your experience