4 Must-Discuss Topics for Your Next IEP Meeting
Empower yourself for the next IEP meeting with our 4 must-discuss topics! From present levels to progress monitoring, prepare for success.
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Ask the Advocate Blog
The Answers Special Education Families Need Now!
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Melissa Minnick
- Mar 11
- 3 min
A Parent’s Guide to Avoiding “Drive-Thru” IEP Meetings
Parents often feel rushed and unheard at IEP meetings. We teach you how to avoid the "Drive Thru" IEP Meeting
Melissa Minnick
- Jan 31
- 3 min
Dyslexia & Public Education: Can public schools teach a child with dyslexia?
Given the public school system's failure to teach reading effectively, can we really trust them to teach children with dyslexia?
Melissa Minnick
- Oct 16, 2023
- 2 min
THINK Dyslexia & Take Action
Is your child struggling with reading and spelling? If so, it is time to THINK Dyslexia and take action!
Melissa Minnick
- Oct 9, 2023
- 3 min
How do I know if my struggling reader shows signs of dyslexia?
Pay attention to the signs of dyslexia in your child. They aren't always what you would expect!
Melissa Minnick
- Oct 2, 2023
- 2 min
What is Dyslexia?
Understand dyslexia, the most common learning disability that affects 1 in every 5 children.
Melissa Minnick
- Jun 19, 2023
- 4 min
3 Teacher Comments That Are Red Flags for Parents
Teacher comments on a report card can contain little nuggets of information that can be big red flags that your child is struggling.
Melissa Minnick
- May 5, 2023
- 4 min
3 Things to Consider When Planning a Summer Break For Your Dyslexic Child
Deciding how to plan a fun summer while still helping your dyslexic child reach their reading goals can be tough. This article can help.
Melissa Minnick
- Apr 17, 2023
- 3 min
What is Extended School Year (ESY)?
ESY is NOT summer school. Learn more about what it is and how it can help the special education student you love.
Melissa Minnick
- Apr 6, 2023
- 5 min
Evaluation & Special Education Eligibility
A diagnosis of dyslexia does not guarantee that your child will receive special education services. Here's what teams consider...
Melissa Minnick
- Mar 23, 2023
- 3 min
What is an evaluation for special education services?
The evaluation is critical to every step of the special education process moving forward.
Melissa Minnick
- Feb 25, 2023
- 3 min
How do students get special education services?
The initial referral is a critical first step in acquiring the services and support your child needs in school. Learn more here.
Melissa Minnick
- Feb 17, 2023
- 3 min
Why Your Dyslexic Child Needs the Protection of a Formal Plan…Not Just “Extra Help”
"Extra help" is not enough. Formal special education plans exist to provide students with the services they need and parents with rights.
Melissa Minnick
- Jan 27, 2023
- 4 min
Is hiring an advocate worth the investment? How do they help families?
When determining the value of advocacy services, consider the effect a positive outcome will have on your child and your family.
Melissa Minnick
- Jan 20, 2023
- 2 min
Five Signs That It's Time to Get an Advocate Involved
Parents often say, “How do I know it’s time to get an advocate involved? Maybe I’m just overreacting and things aren’t that bad.” Trust...
Melissa Minnick
- Jan 16, 2023
- 4 min
How To Find a Qualified Educational Advocate
This step by step guide teaches you how to find an educational advocate and provides interview questions, so that you hire the right person!
Melissa Minnick
- Jan 6, 2023
- 2 min
What is an educational advocate?
An educational advocate’s job requires a combination of technical knowledge and excellent interpersonal skills.
Melissa Minnick
- Aug 12, 2022
- 7 min
Starting Your Dyslexic Child’s School Year Off Right!
Tips and advice for parents of dyslexic children- no matter where they are in the special education process.
Melissa Minnick
- Apr 14, 2022
- 8 min
The Re-evaluation Question: What Parents Need to Know About Special Education Re-evaluation
Read our advice for parents' one main fear when discussing reevaluation. Plus, understand the purposes and benefits.
Melissa Minnick
- Nov 29, 2021
- 9 min
5 Things to Do Now to Help Your Struggling Student (PLUS 3 Mistakes to Avoid!)
If your child is struggling in school, do not wait to take action! We share what to do now and critical mistakes to avoid.
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Watch full episode replays of our Facebook Live Series! Hear questions from parents in the special education community and Lorraine's relevant & timely advice. Follow us on Facebook to join our next LIVE event!
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© 2023 Lorraine M. Hightower, LLC
44135 Woodridge Parkway, Suite 260 Lansdowne, VA 20176
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