Understanding IEPs:
Accessing Services & Supports
The Autism Society of Greater Akron invites everyone in the Autism Community to VOICE, a free monthly session dedicated to education, advocacy, and support for taking action.
WHAT TO EXPECT
Do you ever "¦
- Wonder what your rights are and if the school can do that?
- Feel like you aren't aware of all your options?
- Ask yourself why things have to be so hard?
Join Marjorie Cook from the PEERS Program at Greenleaf Family Center for a powerful session designed to help parents and caregivers understand their rights and confidently navigate the complexities of the school system-especially when it wasn't built with neurodiverse students in mind.
This presentation is jammed packed with information on the following:
- IEP Goals – there are more than just academic goals (academic, behavioral, & social)
- Specially Designed Instruction – what is it
- Accommodations – how do they differ from modifications
- Transportation – does the school have to provide it
- Extended School Year Services – who qualifies
- Related Services and How to Access (One-on-One Aide, Occupational, Speech and Physical Therapy, Counseling)
- Least Restrictive Environments/Placement Options – what happens if you disagree with the school
- Functional Behavior Assessments – what is it, how and when to request one
- Discipline – can they really send your child home
- Home/School Communication – why it matters and how to collaborate with your team
- Progress Reports – what to look for to ensure your student is moving forward
Bonus: Get Connected
Learn how to access a free parent advocate or family peer supporter to walk this journey with you.
WHO SHOULD ATTEND
This forum is open to anyone who identifies with the Autism community who wants to support inclusion.
DO I HAVE TO REGISTER?
Registration is required to receive virtual link.
QUESTIONS
If you have questions or need additional assistance, contact Theresa Maier, ASGA Support Specialist via email here or by phone at 330-940-1441 ext 1.
Meet the Speaker
MARJORIE COOK, OCFPS
Supervisor | PEERS Program Manager
Marjorie Cook is a Parent Advocate, Certified Family Peer Supporter and Supervisor at Greenleaf Family Center in Akron. While parenting a son with behavioral challenges, her search for supports led to her role at Greenleaf, where she draws upon her lived experience to advocate, support, and empower the families of those with behavioral health needs. Her passion for helping the systems understand families, is fueled by the struggles and successes that she and her son encountered on a regular basis. One of her favorite authors, Dr. Ross Greene, Ph.D., guides her philosophical approach to this work, “Children do well if they can.”
Marjorie has worked as an advocate at the local, state, and federal level for the past 18 years. She loves supporting the PEERS team of advocates as their shared passion for families bloom. PEERS stands for Parents, Education, Empowerment, Resources, & Support. We are changing the system, one family at a time! And while she didn’t choose this career path, it chose her, she is grateful for the opportunity to use her family’s journey to effect change. She hopes that one day all children will have what they need to be successful at home, at school, and in their community. Remember, Your Voice Matters!
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