Special Education Advocacy

Navigating the special education system in Virginia can be scary for parents of children with autism. From understanding individualized education programs (IEP) to advocating for services, parents often find themselves overwhelmed and unsure where to turn. With two decades of experience in Hampton Roads supporting children with autism and their families, we’re dedicated to providing expert guidance and advocacy to ensure every child receives the education they are entitled to.

• Understanding Special Education – Virginia’s special education system is complex, with many regulations and procedures in place to ensure the educational needs of children with disabilities are met. Parents who are not familiar with the terminology or process struggle to effectively advocate for their child. Our experienced advocate is well-versed in Virginia’s special education process which allows her to guide families through every step of the process.
• Individualized Education Program (IEP) – The cornerstone of specialized instruction is the IEP. It outlines goals and services that will support the child’s access to public education. Our advocate has decades of experience in collaboratively developing comprehensive and effective documents with school districts.
• Advocacy and Support – At MASC our special education advocate provides personalized support to families helping them understand their rights and giving them the tools and information needed how to learn to effectively advocate for their child. Whether it’s attending IEP meetings, collaborating with school personnel, or providing resources and information, she is dedicated to empowering families to advocate for their students with autism.
• Building Collaborative Relationships – Effective advocacy requires collaboration and partnership between families, educators, and service providers. Our organization has spent years building relationships with school districts, educators, and community organizations across the region. By fostering open communication and collaboration, we can work together to ensure that children with autism spectrum disorder receive the support and services they need to thrive academically and socially.
• Looking to the Future – As we look ahead to the next 20 years, MASC remains committed to providing expert advocacy and support to families of children with ASD in Hampton Roads. We will continue to stay current on special education regulations, adapt our services to meet the evolving needs of families and advocate for the rights of children with disabilities. Together, we can ensure that each student is set on the path to success in school and beyond.