A recent report demonstrates a bit of progress, in terms of graduation.  See the report here: http://www.disabilityscoop.com/2015/03/17/graduation-rates-inch-up/20141/
In Michigan, the Michigan Protection and Advocacy (a non-profit agency) tries to to advocate and protect the legal rights of people with disabilities in Michigan. According to information on their website “MPAS services include information and referral, short-term assistance, selected individual and legal representation, systemic advocacy, monitoring, and training.”  Learn more here:  http://mpas.org/
Progress sometimes comes though, not only through groups and organizations but the persistent and practical pushing of good plans to see that children get what is fair and useful under IDEA (Individuals with Disabilities Education Act).
We can help families, sometimes with simple but thorough consultations, to empower them in the development  and application of a plan.  That might just require a good review and discussion with a family, so they are empowered to act on their own.  Sometimes more is required though.  Among things we’ve done:

  • Assisting with planning for Individualized Education Program (IEP) meetings, attending IEP meetings with families, ensuring compliance with the provisions of IDEA and the Michigan Administrative Rules in addressing students’ needs through a comprehensive approach;
  • Advocating for students as to areas of disagreement between families and districts;
  • Challenging incorrect assumptions which form the basis for flawed recommendations (ensuring that districts share the high expectations of families, to the maximum extent possible);
  • Setting up special needs trusts;
  • Assisting with transitions and plans beyond the school years.

Please contact us if you’d like a consultation and review–which can often be done quite reasonably–or if you need more extended help too.