Why I Should Not Have a Job

The job of a Special Education Advocate is one that I don’t think should exist, and yes, I’m talking about my own job.

As a Special Education Advocate, my job is designed to help families navigate the special education system, communicate the processes clearly, and resolve disputes with the school team. But in a perfect world, parents wouldn’t need me.

From a young age, I knew I wanted to advocate for the special needs’ population. I willingly and eagerly entered the special education world or as like to call it, "Holland." I bought a ticket to Holland eager to learn everything I could about it. (Read Welcome to Holland) When working with families, I am sensitive to the fact that I bought a ticket to Holland, and some parents did not sign up for this trip.

I am an expert on “Holland” but you shouldn’t have to be to navigate this place with ease.

Entering the world of special education can be overwhelming, full of unknowns, and leave parents hesitant on who they can trust. All this makes having an advocate by your side enticing and comforting, but you shouldn’t need me. 

If all IEP teams put the student first and did what was best for them, my job wouldn’t exist.

If all IEP teams stopped communicating using educational terms and jargon that parents couldn’t understand, my job wouldn’t exist.

If all IEP teams fought to keep students in the least restrictive environment with the appropriate supports, my job wouldn’t exist.

If all IEP teams presumed competence in the student, my job wouldn’t exist.

If all IEP teams implemented IEPs and BIPs with integrity and fidelity my job wouldn’t exist.

If IEP teams acted upon the best interest in the student, my job wouldn’t exist.

If all IEP teams communicated with transparency to parents, my job wouldn’t exist.

If all IEP teams valued inclusion and created opportunities for friendship and belonging, my job wouldn’t exist.

I would happily give up my job if it meant students and families could experience a meaningful and inclusive education. Until then, I intend to continue advocating on behalf of families highlighting the beauty of Holland.