Title: What Is the Role of a Special Education Advocate? | American University
Headings: What Is the Role of a Special Education Advocate?
What Is the Role of a Special Education Advocate?
Role and Responsibilities of a Special Education Advocate<
How Special Education Advocates Help Families
Special Education Advocate Careers
Training and Skills for Special Education Advocates
Writing Skills
Research Skills
Interpersonal Skills
Career Outlook
Empower Families as a Special Education Advocate
Recommended Readings

Content: These laws, policies, and regulations detail: Students’ eligibility for special services
Parents’ rights and protections regarding participation in their children’s education
Services and accommodations available
Each of these aspects of special education involves a process, and each process is governed by rules and regulations. Special education advocates help families navigate not only the laws but also the processes by which schools implement legislation. Their expertise gives parents a chance to participate in shaping their children’s education. Parents often lack knowledge of these systems, laws, and best practices. Furthermore, schools use a litany of terms and abbreviations—for example, CSE (committee on special education) or IFSP (individualized family service plan)—that can leave parents struggling to keep up in discussions about their children’s special needs. Special education advocates fill in parental knowledge gaps. Additionally, parents often display sensitivity when dealing with issues regarding their children. Advocates assist parents who may feel emotionally overwhelmed. Advocates also help parents gauge their children’s progress.