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.
Is the school responsible to fund residential placement?
Residential Placements and legal history.
Have you been told by your child’s IEP team we use an “eclectic approach to reading”?
Your child is entitled to research based reading services. An electric approach can be confusing for students with dyslexia. It should be Muti-sensory, and have a proven success rate. If you are told by the district, we get to pick what service we use ask them to put in writing what methodology they are using. The reading instruction also needs to be taught by a specialist that has a certification in the program not simply “trained”. Ask questions, and remember you are an equal member of the team and your input is extremely valuable.
Purpose of Special Education?
As parents your child with a disability on an IEP is entitled to attend school until they are 22 or until you accept a diploma. Do not be in a rush to have them graduate if they are not yet ready.
Getting Ready for College for Students with Learning Disabilities
Are you looking into colleges now for your student with learning challenges? Things to keep in mind when applying to schools.
Boston Business Woman Interview with Maureen Brown, M.S Owner of Advocacy for Special Kids, LLC
Interview with Boston Business Woman on how and why I started Advocacy for Special Kids, LLC in 2003.
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.