Special Education Advocacy Services

This five-week virtual course is designed for parents and parent advocates in training who want a clear, structured understanding of the special education process and the practical steps needed to support students with disabilities. Participants will engage in guided instruction, case examples, templates, and skill-building exercises designed to strengthen their confidence in navigating evaluations, interpreting data, and preparing for team meetings that lead to meaningful outcomes for students.

This opening session provides a comprehensive introduction to the special education framework and timelines. Participants will learn how to initiate the process through a Permission to Evaluate (PTE) and how to understand and respond to a Permission to Reevaluate (PTRE). This includes reviewing all required timelines and how parent input influences the scope of the evaluation. Participants will explore the multidisciplinary team (MDT), the role of each member, and the steps involved in creating a Comprehensive Evaluation Report (CER). Guidance will be provided on requesting educational records, understanding prior written notices, and preparing for eligibility discussions. All related services such as speech and language, occupational therapy, physical therapy, school psychology, social work, counseling, behavioral support, nursing, and assistive technology will be explained, emphasizing how each service contributes to a complete MDT process.

This session focuses on understanding how to prepare for the Individualized Education Program (IEP) meeting. Participants will learn how to review Comprehensive Evaluations results and translate them into measurable goals, meaningful objectives, and specially designed instruction that reflects student needs. Instruction will include developing data-driven goals, analyzing accommodations and modifications, and identifying supplemental aids and services. The SETT process for determining assistive technology needs will be reviewed. Transition planning beginning at age fourteen—post secondary outcomes, career readiness, and independent living skills—will also be introduced. Participants will practice recognizing strengths and gaps in draft Individualized Educational Plans.

This week provides a focused understanding of how student behavior is assessed and supported. Participants will learn how to request and interpret a Functional Behavior Assessment (FBA), how behavioral data is collected, and how a Behavior Intervention Plan (BIP) is developed. Instruction will be provided on the purpose and process of a Manifestation Determination review, including how behavior patterns are analyzed in relation to disability. Extended School Year (ESY) criteria will be explained, including regression, recoupment, critical skills, and the importance of quantitative and qualitative data for decision-making. Participants will learn how daily data collection strengthens both academic and behavioral planning.

This session prepares participants for the deeper layers of advocacy. Instruction includes understanding placement along the continuum of services, how placements are determined, and how to evaluate whether a placement aligns with student needs. Participants will learn how to conduct an effective records review, organize documentation, and prepare structured talking points for meetings. This week focuses on strengthening communication skills, identifying when additional evaluations or supports are needed, and learning how to collaborate in a productive, solutions-focused manner.

                              
The final week brings every concept together. Participants will engage in a full mock IEP meeting, practicing how to reference evaluation data, discuss student needs, propose supports, and respond to team feedback. This session reinforces collaborative communication, structured note-taking, confidence in presenting concerns, and clarity in reviewing goals, services, and placement decisions. The mock meeting is designed to simulate a real IEP experience, giving participants the opportunity to demonstrate the skills they have developed throughout the course.

                                                 
At the end of this training, parents and emerging advocates will possess a comprehensive understanding of the special education process from Permission to Evaluate and Permission to Reevaluate through placement. Participants will be able to interpret evaluations, prepare for meetings, request data, understand services, and support families with confidence and clarity.

The fee for this five-week course is 125.00. A deposit is required to secure a placement in the cohort. Once the deposit has been received, participants will be provided with a complete syllabus outlining weekly topics, expectations, and preparation materials.

                                              
The official course date will be announced at the Gifted Child Autism Awareness Walk. Sharona Brown, Executive Director of Gifted Child, and Nicole Cogdell will make a joint announcement to ensure all families—including those who reside outside Southeastern Pennsylvania or in other states—have access to this opportunity. The course will be fully virtual. One day each week, Nicole will open a Zoom room for participants who wish to ask specific questions, review documents, or receive additional guidance. All fees and deposits for this course are non refundable.