Implementing Self-Advocacy

Least Restrictive Environment

IDEA supports students to be in a least restrictive environment and learn with their same age peers.  It is the intent of the TIG team to provide tools and resources to use and embed throughout a student’s day, but not to take away from their educational community nor to segregate the student.  Utilize a student’s specially designed instruction times to practice self-advocacy goals written in their Individualized Education Program (IEP) and Postsecondary Transition Plan (PTP) goals.

How to Implement

When planning self-advocacy instruction, consider how and when self-advocacy instruction will be delivered.

Here are some examples for implementing self-advocacy curriculum:  

• Inclusionary Classes

Watch this video to see it in action! Career Skills Class

• During extended learning times

• Summer school

• Resource rooms

• Embedded into English resource periods

• Part of advisory groups

• Embed into Academic and Career Planning times

• Case management meetings

• Separate “skinny” class, with curriculum potentially split per grade level

Culturally Responsive Language in Self-Advocacy

Please be cognizant that self-advocacy may look differently depending on family values and cultural norms. It is important to build connections with students and families to gain insight on family values, cultural beliefs, traditions and language. Take time to reflect on Culturally and Linguistically Responsive Reflection Questions when working with students and families.