Be an Advocate

As a teacher or parent, it is important to be an advocate for your students or child. When special education students are involved, this is even more important. Special education students, like young children cannot always tell you what they need.

It is important as a person who cares for them to make sure you always have their best interests in mind. Sometimes this requires taking the time to reach out and get more support. A student can't do that for themselves. They need the support of adults who love them and care for them. Sometimes parents are a student's biggest advocates. Sometimes teachers are. In a perfect world, there is a strong team of support wrapped around every student.

If you don't advocate for students, if you don't ask for the supports they need; then students will not get those supports. You might not always get what you want, but sometimes you will. It doesn't mean you are making enemies, it means you are seeking friends and supports. It means if something doesn't sound right or feel right then you do something about it and find others that can help.

Raise your voice. 
Ask for help. 
Seek answers. 
Advocate. 

It can have a huge impact. It might just change a life.