Parent Voices

Real questions from real parents — turned into advocacy guides grounded in federal and state law. Because you're not the only one asking.

Parent Voices11 min read
I walked in carrying three years of worry. They walked in carrying twenty-two other caseloads. We were all trying to help the same kid — but we couldn’t see each other through what we were carrying.

Everyone Walked Into That IEP Meeting Carrying Something Different

An honest look at what every person brings to the IEP table — the fear, the guilt, the budget pressure, the love — and why real teamwork starts with seeing each other clearly.

Mar 24, 2026
Parent Voices14 min read
My son has ADHD and impulsivity issues. He brought a small nerf gun to school to show his friend — didn't even take it out at school. They want to do a 45-day removal. Is this even legal? His IEP doesn't mention anything about weapons.

Manifestation Determination Review: What Parents Need to Know

When a child with an IEP faces a long suspension or expulsion, the school must hold a Manifestation Determination Review. Learn what it is, how it works, and how to fight for your child.

Mar 6, 2026
Parent Voices14 min read
Am I allowed to ask that the meeting be recorded and sent to me?

Can I Record My IEP Meeting?

Learn your rights to record IEP meetings, understand one-party vs two-party consent laws, and get a sample request letter to send your school.

Feb 28, 2026
Parent Voices12 min read
Can they withhold services if we consent to the IEP since it doesn't say anything about changing classrooms?

The School Wants to Move My Child's Classroom to Get IEP Services

Schools cannot condition IEP services on a classroom change. Learn the legal distinction between IEP content and placement, and how to protect your child.

Feb 28, 2026
Parent Voices11 min read
We were told the device was ours, now the school is threatening to lock out our outpatient therapist

Who Owns My Child's AAC Device? Your Rights to Assistive Technology

Learn who owns your child's AAC device, your rights under IDEA, and what to do when a school tries to lock out your private therapist.

Feb 28, 2026
Parent Voices13 min read
She doesn't have any support at school. She's 5. She's only started acting out at school.

My Child Has No Support at School — Where Do I Start?

First steps when your child with a disability has zero school supports. How to request an evaluation, understand Child Find, and choose the IEP or 504 path.

Feb 28, 2026
Parent Voices12 min read
My son is autistic and when he gets overwhelmed at school, he hits. The school keeps giving him in-school suspension. He’s not being bad — he’s scared.

Your Child Isn't Misbehaving — They're in Fight or Flight

Learn why aggression in children with disabilities is often a stress response, not defiance — and what the IEP should include to actually help.

Feb 26, 2026
Parent Voices11 min read
The school told us that if we sign the new IEP, our daughter will be moved out of her general education classes and into a separate special education classroom. We don’t want that. Do we have a choice?

They Can't Force Your Child Out of General Education

Your child has a legal right to learn in the general education classroom. Learn what LRE means, when placement changes are appropriate, and how to push back.

Feb 26, 2026
Parent Voices13 min read
My daughter struggles every single day. She cries over homework, she has no friends, and the school says she doesn't qualify because her grades are fine. How is that possible?

"Your Child Doesn't Qualify" — What to Do Next

Your child was evaluated and didn't qualify for an IEP. Here's why evaluations miss things, your options including 504 plans and IEEs, and how to keep fighting.

Feb 26, 2026
Parent Voices10 min read
The school told us they can't provide a one-on-one aide because they don't have the budget. My son needs it — it's in the evaluation. What am I supposed to do?

"We Don't Have the Staff for That" Is Not a Legal Excuse

Schools can't deny IEP services because of budget or staffing issues. Learn what the law actually requires and exactly what to say when a school claims they can't provide what your child needs.

Feb 26, 2026

You’re not alone — and you don’t have to figure this out alone

Upload your child’s IEP and get answers in plain English. No jargon, no guessing.

Analyze My Child's IEP

These articles are provided for informational purposes only and do not constitute legal advice. For specific questions about your child's IEP, consult a qualified special education attorney or advocate.