Blog

How to Use AI to Track Progress for Your Special Needs Child

🎯 Feeling overwhelmed tracking your child's IEP progress?
There’s a smarter way—and it’s not more binders or sticky notes.

In my latest blog, I’m sharing how parents of children with special needs can use AI tools to stay organized, spot patterns, and take control of the paper trail that comes with IEPs, therapies, and school communication.

From auto-summarizing long evaluations to tracking behavior data and even transcribing IEP meetings, AI can help you become a more effective advocate—without the burnout.

✨ You don’t have to be tech-savvy—just willing to try.
📥 I even list the exact tools I use (many are free or low-cost)!

🔗 asktheadvocate.org
📩 DM me “AI Toolkit” if you’d like a free copy of my progress tracking starter guide.

#SpecialEducation #IEPParent #SpecialNeedsParenting #AIforParents #ProgressTracking #AskTheAdvocate

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From Misunderstood to Magnificent: A 15-Year Journey of Advocacy and Achievement

This inspiring success story follows a young boy who was initially misclassified in a restrictive classroom despite his exceptional talents. Through determined advocacy, he was placed in a full inclusion program—where he thrived academically and personally.

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Maureen Brown Maureen Brown

What the “Fifth Grade Reading Level” Comment in a BSEA Case Reveals About Denial of FAPE

In this breakdown of the pivotal BSEA case In Re: Desmond & Dracut Public Schools, we examine how the district’s dismissal of dyslexia needs—highlighted by a staff member’s claim that students only need to read at a “4th or 5th-grade level”—led to a ruling in favor of private placement. Learn how parents can identify denial of FAPE, gather the right data, and push for out-of-district placement when public schools fall short.

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Maureen Brown Maureen Brown

What does Ask the Advocate Do?

📢 What Does Ask the Advocate Do? 💡

At Ask the Advocate, we support parents of children with special needs by providing expert guidance and advocacy to help them navigate the special education system. Here’s how we can help:

IEP & 504 Plan Review – Ensure your child’s plan meets their needs
School Advocacy – Attend meetings and advocate for appropriate services
Parent Coaching – Empower you with knowledge & strategies
Placement Consultation – Explore the best school options for your child
Letters & Documentation – Draft strong, persuasive letters to the school
District-Funded Programs – Help you secure out-of-district placements
Drop-in Q&A Sessions – Get quick answers to your questions
Membership Access – Sample letters, templates, and insider tips

🎯 Our mission: To make sure every child gets the support they deserve!

💬 Need help? DM us or visit asktheadvocate.org

to learn more! 🚀 #SpecialEducation #IEPHelp #AskTheAdvocate

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From Three Years Old to College: A Journey of Inclusion and Success

From Special Ed to a Full College Scholarship! 🎓

I met David at 3 years old—bright, talented, and full of potential. But because he was on the autism spectrum, he was placed in a separate classroom. We fought for full inclusion, and once there, he thrived.

🏈 Football team manager
📚 Honor Roll student
🎶 Gifted musician
👑 Homecoming runner-up

Yesterday, he texted me: "Guess what? I got a merit scholarship and full tuition to my dream college."

This is why I do what I do. Inclusion works. Keep fighting for your child—it’s worth it. 💙

#InclusionMatters #SpecialEducation #NeverGiveUp #SuccessStories #IEPAdvocacy

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