This Momma Advocates strives to empower parents by educating them on how to secure the appropriate special education services and programs for their children.
Meet Your Advocate
Michelle Samuelson, M.S. Ed.,
Board Certified Advocate in Special Education
Michelle Samuelson is a former General Education Elementary school teacher. She has a M.S. in Childhood Education from Hunter College and holds an Initial Certificate for teaching in New York State for Childhood Education (Grades 1-6).
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As a result of this need, This Momma Advocates was born. Her goal is to empower parents by educating them on how to secure the appropriate special education services and programs for their children.
This Momma Advocates can help parents gain:
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Clarity
Often, parents find themselves overwhelmed and unsure of where to even begin.
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An advocate can help parents:
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Understand the child’s present level of educational performance
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Clarify the goals hope to meet
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Create a step-by-step plan to reach their goals
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Legal Knowledge
A special education advocate is not a lawyer, but they do have legal knowledge. Part of their job requires knowing and understanding the rights of children with special needs and their parents. While this knowledge does not let them represent parents in court, it does help ensure that the school meets its legal obligations.
3
Understanding of Unique Challenges
A special education advocate has experience in working with special needs. This is important as they understand the challenges parents and children face. This understanding makes it easier for them to recommend tactics and strategies.
THIS MOMMA ADVOCATES CAN HELP PARENTS:
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Learn the language of special education
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Understand state and federal laws
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Interpret reports and evaluations
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Request appropriate classroom services, programs, and supports for your child
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Ensure that your child is in their least restrictive environment
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Prepare for IEP/504 meetings
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Understand the dispute process
