SPECIAL EDUCATION INSIGHTS
When You Know More,
You Can Ask Better Questions.
Practical guidance from Maureen Brown on IEPs, special education advocacy, BSEA decisions, therapeutic placement, college transition, and the questions families don't always know to ask.
Find guidance based on what you're working through right now.
LATEST FROM THE BLOG
Recent Insights From Maureen
Practical guidance on IEPs, advocacy, placement, transition, and the decisions families are facing right now.
From Burlington to the National Stage: Invited to Speak at the 2026 NATSAP Annual Conference
From Regional Impact to the National Stage: Speaking at the 2026 NATSAP Annual Conference
From Burlington to the National Stage: Invited to Speak at the 2026 NATSAP Annual Conference
Last October, I had the opportunity to speak at a regional National Association of Therapeutic Schools and Programs(NATSAP) conference in Burlington, Vermont. The room was filled with program leaders, clinicians, and educators who do this work every day—supporting students with complex emotional, behavioral, and mental health needs.
The conversation was real, practical, and candid. We talked about what actually happens when families are trying to access therapeutic placements, how school districts make decisions behind closed doors, and where things most often break down for parents and programs alike.
That session sparked meaningful dialogue—and clearly struck a nerve.
As a result, I was invited to take that work to the national stage.
I’m honored to share that I will be speaking at the 2026 NATSAP Annual Conference, Many Voices, One Mission, taking place February 9–12, 2026, in San Diego, California.
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
MASSACHUSETTS BSEA DECISIONSBSEA Decisions, Without the Legal Jargon.
When a special education dispute in Massachusetts reaches the Bureau of Special Education Appeals, the decisions can tell families a lot about how hearing officers look at evidence, placement, evaluations, stay-put rights, district obligations, and FAPE. Maureen breaks down selected BSEA decisions in plain language so you can understand what happened, why the hearing officer ruled the way they did, and what families can learn from the case.
NEED MORE THAN AN ARTICLE?
Your Child's Situation Isn't Generic.
Your Next Step Shouldn't Be Either.
Articles can help you understand the issue. But your child's records, history, school district, and current situation determine what comes next. If you need help figuring out your next move, start with the level of support you need.
I NEED DIRECTION
Education Strategy Session
A focused 30-minute conversation with Maureen to talk through your situation, understand your options, and decide what to do next.
I NEED MY DOCUMENTS REVIEWED
Document Review + Strategy
Maureen reviews up to two documents before your 30-minute strategy call so you can discuss the records, concerns, and next steps together.
BSEA Decisions from Summer 2026.
How parents can use it to determine how hearing officers make decisions.