Special Education Advocacy Services
You know your child better than anyone. But knowing how to translate your concerns into the right services, accommodations, and educational program, and then advocating for those supports effectively, is a different challenge entirely. That's exactly where Kids Are First comes in. We provide experienced special education advocacy services to help Maryland families navigate IEPs, 504 Plans, educational evaluations, school meetings, and every step of the special education process with confidence and clarity.
My Child Is Struggling in School. Where Do I Start? If your child is underperforming academically, emotionally, or behaviorally, it can be difficult to know what steps to take first. Doug helps families identify concerns, understand available supports, and determine the best path forward within the school system. Services may include: • Guidance on requesting evaluations • Reviewing school concerns and academic data • Understanding intervention options • Developing a plan for next steps
IEP and 504 Plan Review If your child already has an IEP or 504 Plan but continues to struggle, additional support and adjustments may be needed. Doug works with families to review current plans, progress data, classroom performance, accommodations, and goals to help ensure supports are meaningful and appropriate. Services may include: • Reviewing existing IEPs and 504 Plans • Evaluating goals and accommodations • Guidance on developing effective SMART goals • Recommendations for supplementary aids and services • Preparing families for annual review meetings
Parent Advocacy & IEP Meeting Support Many families feel unheard or unsure how to effectively communicate concerns during school meetings. Whether you need guidance behind the scenes or would like Doug to attend meetings as your advocate, support is available throughout the process. Advocacy services may include: • Preparing questions and concerns before meetings • Guidance on communication with schools • Reviewing documentation and correspondence • Attending IEP or school meetings as an advocate • Helping families work toward collaborative solutions
Ongoing Family Support Services are available through: • Virtual appointments • In-person meetings • Phone consultations • Meeting attendance and advocacy support Every child deserves to feel understood, supported, and empowered to succeed. Kids Are First is committed to helping families navigate the process with clarity, compassion, and confidence.
Educational Evaluations & Testing Results Educational testing and psycho-educational reports are often filled with technical language that can feel confusing and overwhelming. Doug reviews evaluation reports with families in clear, easy-to-understand terms and explains how testing results may impact services, accommodations, eligibility, and educational planning. Support includes: • Psycho-educational testing review • Explaining scores, recommendations, and findings • Guidance on eligibility and services • Assistance preparing for IEP discussions and planning