Educational Advocacy 

The video above will help you understand what children in dependency are experiencing during their  journey as students in Foster Care.  

Guardian ad Litem SCHOOL VISITS

A GAL needs to visit or contact the child/children's school shortly after being assigned the case. The GAL should supply the school with their court orders, identification, and contact information. Emails are a convenient way to maintain contact with elementary, middle, and high school teachers, or guidance counselors. Children who attend daycare or pre-school always have nap time or a quiet time. Before your first visit to this type of facility it is recommended that you call ahead so as not to interrupt nap or mealtimes. After your initial contact with any of the above facilities, a GAL should contact the school or teacher/counselor at least once prior to each JR (Judicial Review) hearing so that factual up to date educational information can be entered in your upcoming JR.  

Many of our children come into the case with IEPs (Individualized Education Plans) or 504 Plans (addressing accommodations for qualified special needs). These plans were developed to better assess and evaluate your children's educational needs and progress. If any of your children are currently involved in these plans, please contact the child's respective school, (most likely the ESE office) and request a copy for your files. You might want to request that your name be placed on a list for any future meetings involving the status of these plans.

Special Education - Does My Child Have or Need an IEP or 504 Plan?

Additional Documents to assist the GAL with their Child' educational needs. 

Getting Ready for Your Student’s Individual Educational Plan (IEP) Meeting.