The 15-Minute Advocate

From paperwork panic to advocacy confidence — in one binder.

Feeling buried in IEPs, testing reports, and school emails? In this episode of The 15-Minute Advocate, I walk you step-by-step through setting up a Parent Special Education Binder. You’ll learn how to organize IEPs, evaluations, progress reports, communication logs, and more — all in one place. With tips on what to include, how to keep it updated, and why it’s your best tool at meetings, this quick guide will help you stay calm, confident, and ready to advocate for your child.

You can get a summary sheet of this podcast by emailing the [email protected]

Because you’re not "just the parent"—you’re the expert.

In this episode, I break down the very first steps of an IEP meeting — from introductions to reviewing test results to walking through the eligibility flowchart. You’ll learn what questions to ask, how to spot red flags like predetermination, and the exact phrases you can use to make sure your voice is heard. This episode is all about giving you the confidence and tools to step into that meeting as an equal member of the team.

Breaking down Special Ed jargon so parents can speak the language of advocacy.

In this episode, we continue breaking down the alphabet soup of Special Education. I unpack common terms like related services, consultation, direct services, ADA, 504 Plans, and give a quick refresher on IDEA and FAPE. We also tackle something equally important: language. Words matter. I explain why it’s best to say hard of hearing instead of hearing impaired, low vision instead of visually impaired, and why person-first language (“a child with a disability”) shows respect and dignity. And no, we don’t use “handicapped” anymore—it’s outdated and harmful. This episode is about giving parents the tools to understand the jargon and advocate for respectful, accurate language in IEP meetings.

IEP lingo—decoded, de-jargonized, de-stressed.

Ever feel like you need a secret decoder ring for IEP meetings? This episode is your guide to cracking the code: FAPE, IDEA, LRE, inclusion, and more—explained without the jargon headache. Say goodbye to alphabet soup and hello to parent power.

Feeling Ready: Last Steps Before Your IEP Meeting

Getting ready for an IEP meeting can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to go in stressed. In this episode of The 15-Minute Advocate, I walk you through those last-minute steps to prepare, what usually happens during the meeting, and how the process tends to flow. My goal is to help you feel calmer, more confident, and ready to speak up for your child. If you’d like copies of the resources I shared in the podcast, just email me at [email protected].

Understanding begins with access—make your voice heard in any language.

If English is not your first language, this episode is a must-listen. I explain how you can request school documents in your native language and ensure a qualified interpreter is present for your IEP or Special Education meetings. You'll also learn what stepsto take—and how to file a complaint—if your school district fails to meet these legal obligations. Empower yourself with the tools to advocate for clear communication and equal access.

To file a complaint(PRS) in Massachusetts- ⁠ https://www.doe.mass.edu/prs/⁠

Preparing for the IEP During the Evaluation Period
Your voice matters—start preparing now.

In this episode of The 15-Minute Advocate, we focus on how parents can make the most of the 30-school-day evaluation period by preparing for the upcoming IEP meeting. I walk you through 6 key questions to reflect on—including your child’s strengths, your concerns, and what supports might help. This thoughtful preparation not only empowers you at the table, but can also be shared with your Team leader to help shape the IEP. Want a copy of the form I use? Email me at [email protected].

Episode 2: Understanding the Permission to Test ProcessIn this episode of The 15-Minute Advocate, we break down what happens after you submit a written request for special education testing. Learn what to expect from the school district, including the "permission to test" form and the packet of information that must be sent within five school days. I’ll walk you through what these documents mean, why they matter, and how to handle them with confidence. Don’t miss this essential guide for staying informed and in control of your child’s educational rights.

🎙 Episode 1: Get It in Writing — Why It Matters in Special Education
In this quick episode, I break down one of the most important tools in special education advocacy: the written request. Whether you're asking for evaluations, services, or support, putting your request in writing protects your rights and creates a clear paper trail. Tune in to learn why it’s a game-changer — and how to do it effectively.