The Educational Advocate at the Hallowell Center

An educational advocate can be helpful in a variety of ways to help your child “unwrap their gifts” in the academic environment: 

• An advocate will provide guidance and direction to a parent or family through the special education process and work to secure the appropriate educational services, accommodations and placement for your child in both the public and private school arena.

• As a representative of the parents, an advocate will work with the schools to ensure that they are following the current special education and disability laws.

• By thoroughly reviewing your child’s academic records, personal history and testing information, the advocate will make recommendations regarding services and placement to design the best goals and objectives to meet your child’s needs.

• Guidance will also be provided for testing, treatment and therapy options.

Our educational advocate will direct and provide guidance in all aspects of the special education process:  

• Initial referrals

• Letters to school districts

• Referrals for evaluations and services

• Classroom observations for input on service delivery levels as well as placement

• Team meetings with special education department and other school personnel

• Record and reimbursement requests

• Compliance complaints

• Referrals for treatment, testing and therapy

• Advocacy on behalf of parents at Mediation Hearings

• Representation at Due Process Hearings and the Appeal Process

The Educational Advocate’s Approach

Given the complexity of each child’s situation, I will thoroughly analyze neuropsychological reports, school report cards, evaluations and student’s work. It is also helpful if I can meet your child in order for me to make the best recommendations. I will also take a thorough personal history including early childhood milestones and any notable factors that may have influenced your child’s development. In utilizing Dr. Hallowell’s strengths based approach, it is very important that we look at educating the “whole child.” While grades and tests hold an important place, the child’s social and emotional well-being should be at the forefront. My ultimate goal is to empower every parent I work with to become a better advocate for their child.

Christine Robinson, M.Ed.