The Island Parents Advisory Council (IPAC) on special education, in partnership with Martha’s Vineyard public schools, is hosting a free workshop for parents on Wednesday, April 10, at 6 pm in the MVRHS library, according to a press release.
Educational advocates with Cape Cod Advocate Christine Riley and Tina Qvarnstrom will give a presentation, “IEP Rights and Strategies,” that will inform parents and guardians of children in special education about basic rights, the IEP development process, and how to monitor your child’s progress within the plan.
This event is open to all parents and guardians of Island students of any age receiving special education services at any Island school, out-of-district placement, homeschool or preschool setting, or seeking a special education evaluation. Preregistration is not required. If you or a parent you know requires translation services, please contact the school district in advance to arrange it.
According to M.V. IPAC co-chair Laura Silber, the state mandates that school districts offer at least one basic rights and special ed workshop every year. The M.V. IPAC surpasses those requirements by offering workshops twice a year.
“These workshops educate parents as to what their child is entitled to under state and federal law,” Silber said. “They provide practical tools for understanding the IEP process, and show parents how to advocate more effectively for their child if they want something changed.”
If a parent is having difficulty securing services for a child, Silber said, there is a Program Quality Assurance (PQA) representative at the Massachusetts Board of Education who can answer questions, intervene with schools if they are out of compliance, or help file a formal complaint. Contact George Haile at 781-338-3780 or via email at ghaile@doe.mass.edu.