Abstract

Written by parents who have been through the US special education system, this book cuts through the jargon to provide other parents with a no-nonsense road map full of valuable first-hand insights and tried-and-tested advice.

The authors clearly describe:

· the special education process, including the school hierarchies parents are likely to encounter and etiquette to be aware of when dealing with school personnel
· the information parents should expect to see in school evaluations and Individualized Education Programs (IEPs), and what to do when this information is missing or insufficient
· problems parents may encounter when the needs of the school conflict with the needs of a child, including how to deal with such situations and when to seek legal advice
· the importance of organizing special education documentation and establishing a 'paper trail', and how to begin this process
· why transition planning is so important, and transition services parents may want to consider for their child.

Demonstrating that parents really do have the power to make special education work for their child, this empowering guide is essential reading for parents of children with disabilities who are new to the special education system in the US, as well as those who feel frustrated with the system.

Parents Have the Power to Make Special Education Work is a must read for families of children who receive special education services. The authors have carefully woven their personal experiences with a precise understanding of the law. They provide insight and helpful tips about how the process plays out in a school environment. Parents and professionals can learn from their successes and the pitfalls that may occur. I heartily recommend this volume - sooner rather than later!
Richard J. Robison, Executive Director, Federation for Children with Special Needs, Boston, MA
Based on their own experiences, Judith Canty Graves and Carson Graves demonstrate that parents have the power to ensure that their children with special needs get the quality education they need, and by right, must receive. With clear tips and action steps, this hopeful and inspiring book is a must-read for any parent navigating the special education maze.
Nan Aron, Founder and President of Alliance for Justice
Judith Canty Graves and Carson Graves are the parents of a son with learning disabilities who is about to graduate from college. They live in Massachusetts.
Parents Have the Power to Make Special Education Work is like having a trusted, knowledgeable friend to guide you along each step of your journey through special education. It will help you understand the laws and resolve the hidden issues that are unique to special education and school culture. Kudos to Judith and Carson Graves for writing this superb book!
Pam Wright and Pete Wright, nationally recognized experts in the fields of special education law and advocacy
The book you hold in your hand offers a lucid and pragmatic guide...through the maze of public and private procedures that parents must navigate to secure the services that their children with disabilities need...Read this book and keep it handy for frequent reference! And may you, with its help, fight your way to a fantastic program for your child!
from the foreword by Robert K. Crabtree, Esq., Kotin, Crabtree & Strong, LLP, Boston
At last, a clear, concise, and no-nonsense guide for parents navigating the special education system on behalf of their child with a disability of any kind. This book will be referred to time and again by parents seeking a partnership with educators to foster the best possible outcome for their child. Bravo!
Eileen M. Costello, MD, Pediatrician, Southern Jamaica Plain Health Center of Brigham and Women's Hospital and co-author of Quirky Kids: Understanding and Helping Your Child Who Doesn't Fit In - When to Worry and When Not to Worry