Frequently asked questions

Navigating special education, IEP meetings, and 504 plans can feel overwhelming for any parent. Here you will find clear, straightforward answers about how professional advocacy protects your child's rights and balances the table at school ARD meetings.

Common questions about special education advocacy

Backed by 15 years of Texas education experience—as a special education teacher, coordinator, and regional director overseeing 13 schools—MJG Special Education Advocacy Services provides the expertise needed to secure proper accommodations and support for K–12 students.

Is my child's IEP set in stone, or can we change it?

No, an IEP is never set in stone. You have the legal right to request an ARD committee meeting at any point during the school year to review, update, or revise accommodations, goals, and services whenever your child is struggling.

How can I fix an IEP or 504 plan that isn't working?

We begin with a thorough review of your student's records to identify gaps between their needs and current accommodations. From there, we request an ARD or 504 meeting to present clear evidence, draft targeted goals, and secure necessary supports.

What is the benefit of hiring an advocate over attending an ARD meeting alone?

Schools know the legal jargon and formal procedures, which can leave parents feeling overwhelmed or sidetracked. A professional advocate balances the table, knows legal requirements, keeps discussions focused on student rights, and de-escalates tense moments while honoring your knowledge as a parent.

What grade levels and ages do you support?

We advocate for special education students and families across all K–12 grades throughout Texas, ensuring appropriate services from elementary school through graduation transitions.

What documents should I prepare before our first consultation?

Please gather any relevant paperwork you have, including initial evaluation requests, Full Individual and Initial Evaluations (FIIE), current and past IEPs or 504 plans, report cards, progress reports, and recent correspondence with school staff.

Do you attend ARD and 504 meetings in person or virtually?

We support families both ways. We attend meetings in person within 100 miles of Weslaco, Texas, and provide comprehensive virtual advocacy for school districts all across the state of Texas.

What qualifies MJG to advocate for my child?

Our background includes 10 years as a Texas special education teacher, 3 years as a special education coordinator, and 2 years as a regional director overseeing 13 campuses. Having written hundreds of IEPs and led hundreds of ARD meetings, we know school operations from the inside out.

What happens after our initial consultation?

Once we review your documentation and establish your student's goals, we create an advocacy strategy, draft communications to your campus team, and prepare to represent your student's rights before, during, and after the ARD meeting.

Ready to stand up for your child's education?

You do not have to face complex school district meetings alone. Schedule a consultation today and let us help you secure the educational services, accommodations, and respect your child deserves.