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Navigating the Special Education Process
A Practical Guide for Parents
Parents often enter the special education system because they know something isn’t working for their child. Their child is struggling academically, developmentally, socially or personally. The process can feel confusing, bureaucratic, and overwhelming. But you don’t have to navigate it alone.
Join Gateways and expert presenters Barbara Ball and Andi Weiss for an interactive, educational virtual workshop focusing on supporting three key stages in the process to develop the strongest educational plan for your child.
- Getting the right evaluations
- Navigating the IEP eligibility process and associated meetings
- Monitoring progress through clear metrics for success, ensuring your child’s plan actually works
Parents and caregivers will come away with practical information and tools to help you not only obtain services, but to build an effective plan that truly helps your child succeed.
About Our Presenters
Barbara Ball
With over 20 years of clinical social work experience, Barbara Ball specializes in supporting children with developmental, learning, and emotional disabilities from preschool through age 22. Drawing on a background in special education and teaching, she works closely with families to navigate the educational system and secure appropriate in-school and out-of-school services. Barbara has extensive expertise in developing, advocating for, and developing effective Individualized Education Plans (IEPs). Her practice emphasizes a “whole child” approach, helping craft comprehensive and effective IEPs that ensure measurable outcomes. She has experience supporting neurodivergent children, including those on the autism spectrum and those with complex medical or neurological profiles. In addition to her clinical work, Barbara provides consultation, conducts classroom observations and program evaluations, attends mediations and leads workshops for both parents and professionals on special education advocacy.
Andi Weiss
PRESENTER DETAILS COMING SOON!
About this Series: Empowering Caregivers
Raising a child with a disability can be incredibly rewarding—but it also comes with unique challenges. Many caregivers experience significant emotional, physical, and financial stress, along with higher rates of isolation, dealing with navigating complex systems.
But you don’t have to do this alone. This year, Gateways is offering a FREE parenting support series specifically for mothers and caregivers of children with disabilities. Join us to connect, build skills, and feel truly supported. Whether you’re looking for concrete guidance or simply a place to feel affirmed, we’re here for you. Read more about the Empowering Caregivers series here.
We’re able to offer this series free of charge thanks to the generosity of The Miriam Fund of Boston’s Combined Jewish Philanthropies. The Miriam Fund is a volunteer-led philanthropic community committed to creating an equitable world that expands opportunities for women and girls. While this series is primarily geared towards mothers, any caregiver of a child with a disability is welcome to attend.