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.
Do I Really Need to Work with an Educational Advocate?
Do I Really Need to Work with an Educational Advocate? The short answer is, yes. Unfortunately, there is no SparkNotes version of education rights and regulations. Learn how you can save time and money by hiring an educational advocate.
Does your child require a therapeutic program?
When should I consider a therapeutic school for my child? How do therapeutic programs work? What do therapeutic schools cost? Where can I find schools? Learn here!
College Planning For Students with Disabilities
How is College Planning different when your child has learning challenges? Learn the information to gather during the college search process and the steps to take during the disability services application process.
Wilderness Programs: Myth vs Fact
This blog is about the untruths, fake news, and misinformation that are out there about Wilderness Therapy Programs. The problem with the lies, fake news and misinformation is that although it may be interesting to read, it is never the whole story. This blog is an attempt to get at more of the truth and unpack some of the misconceptions that abound online. You may have read stories about wilderness therapy abuse and controversy, but we hope you'll consider the other side of the story.
Criteria for Extended School Year Know your rights.
It’s only when all factors are considered should extended school year should be considered. Remember you are part of your child’s team and you have important information about your child’s learning.
WHAT IS A THERAPEUTIC BOARDING SCHOOL?
Do you need help finding a therapeutic placement for your child? Book a consultation now. asktheadvocate.org
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.