Parent Advocacy: D/HH 1.1.1

For guardians of deaf or hard of hearing children, attending IEP meetings, 504 meetings, and other educational discussions can be both essential and overwhelming. These meetings serve to discuss your child's educational needs and rights, and knowing how to effectively advocate for your child is crucial. The Parent Advocacy app offers valuable insights into navigating these processes.

Features:

• Introductory Information: The app includes videos and inspirational content designed to familiarize users with its features.
• IEP Meetings: Gain a clear understanding of Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) and learn how to actively participate in these meetings.
• Section 504 Plan Meetings: Differentiate between Section 504 meetings and IEP meetings, with a focus on their specific implications.
• Other School Meetings: Explore advocacy principles applicable to various school discussions and determine your child's eligibility for IEP or 504 plans.
• Fillable Checklists and Notes: Utilize tools to manage the advocacy process effectively, maintaining a record of your progress and jotting down important notes.
• Common Questions: Access a compilation of frequently asked questions that may address your specific concerns for each type of meeting.
• Strategies: Discover six key strategies for advocating for your child and enhancing their educational experience.
• Resources: Find linked resources and contact information for parental and deaf organizational partners offering additional support.
• Videos: Watch introductory content that provides guidance on utilizing the app and suggests next steps.

The Parent Advocacy app is a collaborative effort involving the Laurent Clerc National Deaf Education Center at Gallaudet University, the American Society for Deaf Children, Hands & Voices, and the National Association of the Deaf. Its goal is to empower parents with the knowledge and tools necessary to advocate effectively for their children in educational settings.