We’re educational advocates – and so much more.

Our approach is unique. We provide comprehensive, wraparound support that goes beyond the IEP. While we are committed to helping you navigate the special education process, we also assist with a wide range of services that support your child’s growth and well-being in and out of school. 

We also offer continued support as your child transitions into adulthood. Whether it’s planning for post-secondary education, employment, or accessing adult services, we’re here for every stage of the journey. 

Request a Free Introductory Consultation

Special Education Advocacy Services

Learn more about how we can help you through the different stages of your child’s life: 

We work with families who have children with a wide range of abilities and support needs. Let’s work together to ensure your child gets the support they deserve. 

Entering the Special Education System

Clear explanations of the special education process 

Navigating special education can be overwhelming. We break down each step of the process—from referral and evaluation to eligibility and service delivery—so you feel informed, empowered, and confident in advocating for your child.      

Guidance on your legal rights and how to exercise them 

Understanding your rights under federal and state special education laws is essential. We help you interpret timelines and legalities and guide you if your child’s needs are not met.      

Assistance with understanding evaluations  

Through a detailed review of evaluations, IEPs, and progress data, we work with you to build a strong foundation for informed decision-making and effective advocacy. 

Enhancing and Supporting Existing Special Education Services 

Individualized IEP and 504 document and meeting support and advocacy

Whether your child’s team is developing an IEP or 504 Plan for the first time or revisiting an existing one, we help ensure your child’s plan is thorough and appropriate. We support you before, during, and after meetings, advocating for services that match your child’s strengths and challenges.    

Ongoing monitoring of your child’s progress 

We don’t stop at the meeting. We continue to assist you with tracking your child’s academic, social-emotional, and/or behavioral progress and help you address concerns that may arise during the school year.   

School observations and feedback 

When helpful and appropriate, we can observe your child in their educational environment and provide insight and recommendations that support more effective instruction, accommodations, or behavioral interventions.   

Support with school/program placement and transitions 

Whether your child is moving from preschool to kindergarten, elementary to middle school, middle to high school or transitioning to a specialized program, we provide guidance and advocacy to ensure a smooth and supportive experience. We will also assist with identifying the need for and advocating for out of district placements.   

Assistance resolving school conflicts and navigating mediation 

If concerns or disputes arise with your child’s school, we’re here to support resolution. We work together with families and schools as partners, creating a supportive team around your child to help them access the services they deserve. We help you communicate effectively with school staff, prepare for productive team meetings, and, when necessary, navigate formal dispute resolution processes such as mediation or due process hearings.   

Referrals to trusted outside evaluators 

Evaluations are key to identifying your child’s unique profile. We can connect you with trusted independent evaluators (neuropsychologists, occupational therapists, speech and language therapists, physical therapists, and independent academic evaluators) when more clarity is needed.  

Accessing benefits and wrap around supports

Help accessing public and private benefits 

We assist families in exploring and applying for supports beyond the school system, including state and federal benefits including Supplemental Security Income (SSI), Social Security Disability (SSDI), MassHealth (regardless of whether the family would qualify).

Providing referrals for out-of-school supports and services 

Every child’s needs are unique. We connect families with trusted professionals and community resources—including mental health providers, therapists, transition programs, physicians, dentists, and other healthcare providers who specialize in serving children with disabilities to support your child’s development outside the classroom.   

Assistance in finding appropriate social programming 

We offer guidance in finding appropriate social and recreational opportunities, including adaptive sports, music programs, therapeutic camps, and sibling support groups. 

Request a Free Introductory Consultation

You may also contact us at 781-693-5640 or advocates@jfcsboston.org.