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Parent Mentors are parents of children with disabilities who provide free peer-to-peer support to other families of children with disabilities. We work in collaboration with families, schools and agencies. With our support, we hope to help families better understand the special education process and become better advocates for their children. We use our passion and experience to create strong partnerships to make the special education processes, decisions and information more accessible.
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What is a Parent Mentor
Guides & Supports
A Parent Mentor can help translate special education policies and procedures into understandable language for families and guide them through the special education process upon request. This includes assessment, evaluation, and the Individualized Education Plan (IEP). A Parent Mentor is familiar with federal and state special education laws. The Parent Mentor also serves as a "listening ear" for parents and staff and if problems do arise, works to resolve differences through consultation and conflict resolution while maintaining a positive, collaborative focus on the student. Assistance is free of charge to families, as the Ohio Department of Education provides funding for Parent Mentor projects to school districts through grants. Parent Mentors in Ohio currently receive professional development and training from the Center on Education and Training for Employment at The Ohio State University.
