- Is this a want or a need?
- Will I (or my child) still meet learning goals without this item or service, although it may take longer or may not be the method I would prefer?
- Is my request based on sound research?
- Is there a possibility that the item or service could be ineffective or harmful?
- Is this item or service experimental or not a mainstream method?
- Is my request reasonable?
If parents believe the service is valid and necessary, they may want to consider consulting advocates for help.
Who can be special education advocates, and where can I find one?
Advocates come from all walks of life and various professions. There is no formal license or certification for advocates, and many advocates have learned from their own experiences. You can find advocates through:
- Resources in your state;
- Your state's department of education;
- An area mental health agency or local health department;
- Non-profit organizations serving people with disabilities;
- A school or private social worker or counselor; or
- Referral from other parents of children with disabilities.
What should I look for in advocates? How to Tell if Special Education Advocates Are Right for You
- Look for advocates with experience in your disability area. If no advocates are available, find someone who has a good track record of successful negotiations.
- Ask for references. Ask references about the advocate's level of knowledge, professionalism, and effectiveness. If possible, talk with others who are familiar with the advocate who can provide an unbiased critique of his services.
- At minimum, advocates should have a good working knowledge of special education law. Advocates with formal training are preferable if available.
- Look for advocates who will be honest with you and not just tell you what he thinks you want to hear.
- Look for an advocate who is supportive and realistic about what she can do for you.
- Ask about fees, and have the advocate write out exactly what services you will get for those fees. Advocates may be available at no cost to you through government agencies. When fees are involved, be especially careful. Unfortunately there are unethical advocates who would prey upon your misfortune. Trust your instincts. If you do not feel comfortable with the advocate's fees, look elsewhere.
Beware of:
- Advocates who make promises that seem too good to be true;
- Advocates who claim they are the only ones who can help you;
- Advocates who promise to win money or help you get rich;
- Advocates who seem overly dramatic or antagonistic to you or the service provider;
- Advocates who drag out the process or charge you despite little progress in your case;
What is the best negotiating style for advocates for learning disabled students?
Advocates' styles may vary a great deal, and only you can decide if you are comfortable with that style. Some advocates are calm but effective negotiators who win your cause by presenting your request with solid data to support it. Others are highly aggressive and may attempt to intimidate to get the matter resolved to your preferences.
Whatever approach is used, it is important to:
- Ensure your request is appropriate and reasonable.
- Ensure advocates do not destroy any hope of your working with the school district or provider in the future. Good advocates should not make you dependent on them for life.
- Ensure you have solid data to support your request, such as recommendations from physicians. Data and other supporting information that clearly shows why the service or item is needed can help your case.
- Determine in advance whether you could or would compromise if appropriate.
- Ensure you know what the likely objections to your request will be and what your response to those objections will be.
