FAQ
how do I find an advocate?
You can visit COPAA (Council for Parent Attorneys and Advocates) for a list of advocates. Our recommendation is to find someone that you feel comfortable with as this process can be intense and emotional. Every advocate has a different approach and it is important to be on the same page. There are agencies that also provide advocacy (ie- The ARC of Greater Houston).
Do I really need an advocate?
Our advice is to seek assistance early in the process. Many times parents wait until there is an issue or they are tired of fighting for services for too long. It is best to have appropriate services and supports from the beginning. I have been in several meetings where the school staff has thanked me afterward for helping the meeting go smoothly. In most cases, everyone has the same goal- to ensure that students are successful.
how do I ask the school for an evaluation?
The first step is to request an evaluation in writing. The school has to respond to the request by either accepting to evaluate or by providing an explanation for denying the request. We always recommend that everything be put in writing for documentation purposes. This is the best way to track who you contacted and when.
I have an outside diagnosis. what's next?
Contact the school and provide the information/ documentation. The school can accept the eligibility and consider a 504 plan or special education but there must be an educational need. The school may decide to do additional testing.
my child has dyslexia. What should the school be doing?
If your child has dyslexia and there is an educational need, the school must provide dyslexia intervention. This should be consistent, scheduled intervention by a certified dyslexia teacher. Research shows that it is best when instruction is received 4-5 times per week.
who is eligible for services through the school district?
Child find law states that schools must find and evaluate all children with disabilities or suspected disabilities from birth through the age of 21. This includes children in private schools. (https://www4.esc13.net/child-find/)