Educational Advocacy Skills: Rules of the Game

Join us for a series of workshops designed to help you increase your educational advocacy knowledge. Meet other parents of children eligible for special education, and gain the insight, training, and skills necessary to navigate the complexities of advocating for your child’s appropriate educational supports and services.

This workshop series will be based on the principles outlined in the book From Emotions to Advocacy by Pam Wright and Pete Wright. Through these sessions, parents will learn how to advocate for their child’s special education needs and develop general advocacy strategies.

Participation in all sessions is not mandatory, please note that registration is required for each workshop.This workshop aims to build on your parental involvement and leadership skills, while also fostering connections with other parents in the community. Don’t miss this opportunity to empower yourself and make a difference in your child’s educational journey!

Workshop Topics:
Rules of the Game – November 20:
Deepen your understanding of school systems and enhance your participation in the IEP process. Learn strategies to navigate challenges and effectively advocate for your child’s needs. Gain insights into educational policies and procedures, empowering you to overcome barriers and advocate for a successful educational journey for your child.

Resolving Conflict – December 18:
Gain valuable insight into resolving conflicts between parents or guardians and school staff. Explore the options available to address disagreements and understand the underlying reasons for conflicts in special education decision-making. Acquire practical strategies for effective communication and collaboration.

Emergency, Crisis, Help! – January 15:
Learn about events that can trigger a special education crisis and learn effective crisis management strategies. Discover the power of the “Parent as the Expert” approach, empowering you to effectively advocate for your child. Acquire valuable tools and knowledge to navigate challenging situations.

Creating Paper Trails and Letter Writing – March 19:
Learn the significance of maintaining accurate records and documentation to support your child’s educational journey. Gain valuable insights and practical tips for writing effective letters that effectively advocate for your child’s needs. Enhance your skills in communicating with educators, administrators, and support teams.

Preparing for Meetings: Taking Control – April 16:
Learn key strategies to take control and confidently navigate IEP meetings. Unlock the negotiator within you and discover five rules for effective problem-solving. Gain insights on preparing for school meetings and enhancing your image and presentation skills. Equip yourself with the tools to advocate for your child’s education.

Meeting Strategies: Maintaining Control – May 21:
Gain valuable insights on maintaining control and overcoming school meeting anxiety. Learn effective strategies to navigate common meeting problems and utilize the Problem-Resolution Worksheet for successful resolutions. Discover post-meeting strategies to ensure follow-through and advocate confidently for your child’s educational needs.

This webinar will be presented by a Parents Helping Parents Education Resource Specialist and will be presented in English.

This series of advocacy workshops is for parents of children ages 3-22 with a known or suspected disability and professionals working with this population. Previously attending Parents Helping Parents training “Special Education Basics” and/or “A Guide to the IEP and Special Education Process” is helpful, but not required.

Funded by the California Department of Education, Special Education Division.

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