No, I Have Not Met The Student

I am frequently asked by IEP team members if, as the special education advocate,  I have met the student for whom I am advocating.  In fact, many team members have been quite offended if I haven't.

Let me explain, as I recently did to a director of special education, why I will not apologize or back pedal for not meeting the student.

I am a special education advocate.  I am not a speech and language pathologist, special education teacher,  regular education teacher, psychologist, social worker, occupational therapist or physical therapist.  As a special education advocate is it my role to work with parents toward the goal of getting an appropriate program in place for their child under the rights they have in the IDEA (Individuals with Disabilities Education Act).

The IEP team must consider the professional recommendations of professionals who evaluate and make recommendations about a students education based on their area of expertise, such as a speech and language pathology, psychology, occupational therapy, psychiatry, etc..  As a special education advocate, I am not the professional who should have an opinion based on a field in which I am not an expert regarding their education program

While it's always a bonus for me to meet the student, I do not believe it is my role to be a member of the team who dictates intervention, programming or specific evaluations.  However, I can certainly be that professional who guides the team toward the professionals who can.

I am the person on the team who is ever mindful of parents and students rights under the IDEA.  And believe me, I have plenty to say about that!