Navigating the referral process can feel overwhelming - for both parents and educators. Parents bring unique insights from home, while teachers bring classroom data and professional expertise. When those perspectives come together, the process becomes less about paperwork and more about building a strong team around the child.

In this blog, we’ll explore practical ways to collaborate with parents during the referral process. From clear communication and valuing parent input to sharing data and setting realistic expectations. Because when schools and families work as partners, the referral process shifts from overwhelming to empowering.

“Why am I here?”
If you've ever asked yourself that during an ARD meeting, you're not alone.

Many general education teachers walk into special education meetings feeling uncertain about their role, but here’s the truth: your insight isn’t just helpful, it’s essential.

As the educator who sees the student daily in a general education setting, you bring real-world perspective the rest of the IEP team can’t replicate. Whether you’re noticing how they participate in class, respond to supports, or interact with peers—you hold key pieces of the puzzle that shape the IEP.

This blog breaks down exactly what’s expected of you, how to prepare (without adding to your workload), and why your voice matters.

FREE RESOURCE: Grab a free General Ed Teacher ARD Checklist to help you walk into the meeting feeling prepared and confident.

When I was removed from a professional group of fellow Educational Diagnosticians for supporting families through my consulting work, I realized something deeper was at play: the word “advocate” has become polarizing in education.

But true advocacy isn’t about opposition, it’s about partnership. In this blog, I discuss how the term “advocate” has become misunderstood, why both educators and advocates must do better, and what it really looks like when we work together for the benefit of the child.

Advocacy should never be about division; it should be about collaboration, clarity, and creating space for families to confidently support their children.

Read on to learn why it’s time for a mindset shift in special education and how we can all help bridge the gap.

Navigating special education can feel overwhelming, especially when you're first introduced to terms like IEP, ARD, and FAPE. In this post, we break down the Individualized Education Program (IEP)—what it is, who qualifies, and what it actually includes. Whether you're preparing for your first meeting or just trying to understand your role in the process, this guide will help you approach your child's IEP with clarity, confidence, and a stronger sense of advocacy.