Aug. 23, 2023 ~ On Wednesday, Sept. 27 from 9 a.m.-3 p.m., Families Together will host a free training for parents on “Parent Rights and Education Advocates” at the Ball Conference Center (21350 W. 153rd St., Olathe).

This training is designed for any parent in the Kansas City metropolitan area to learn about their rights in the special education process and for those who wish to serve as an education advocate. It will cover general education interventions, evaluations, Individualized Education Programs (IEPs), placement, procedural safeguards and discipline. This training meets the requirements for becoming a volunteer education advocate for children who do not have parents to act on their behalf for special education processes. Although parents are encouraged to serve in this role, they are not required to fulfill this role.

“Olathe Public Schools is committed to partnering with both parents and education advocates to support the individual needs of every student,” Superintendent Dr. Brent Yeager said. “Our vision is to prepare students for their future, and we know that a strong partnership and shared vision between home and school are critical as we work with our families to move forward together toward that goal.”

The Kansas State Department of Education has contracted with Families Together, Inc. to coordinate the Education Advocate Program. Education Advocates step into the role of the parent in special education matters and advocate for the child/student. Advocates should be willing to assert their rights as the legal educational decision maker and effectively advocate for the student while working to build a strong school team around the student.

Olathe Public Schools encourages parents to be informed and utilize an education advocate if desired. Read more about Families Together.

Lunch will be provided. Register for the event.