Community in Action
The Role of Educational Advocacy in Supporting Families: An Interview with Tracie McHugh
At Parenting Matters, we are committed to helping children thrive in school, and one vital service we offer is educational advocacy. In a recent conversation, Kelly Benford, our Program Director, sat down with Tracie McHugh, Parenting Matters’ Educational Advocate, to discuss the importance of educational advocacy for families in our community.
Tracie shared how her journey began when her son was diagnosed with multiple disabilities. This personal experience led her to become certified in special education advocacy to support her own son, and eventually, other families in Manatee and Sarasota counties. She now collaborates with parents and schools to ensure children receive the services and accommodations they need to succeed.
As Tracie explained, parents know their children best, so her first step is to understand their concerns and hopes. Together, they identify potential solutions, such as Individualized Education Plans (IEPs) or 504 plans, which can provide accommodations like preferential seating, extended test times, or even small environmental changes that help level the playing field for students with disabilities.
Tracie emphasized the complexity of navigating school systems and the critical role advocates play in helping parents during meetings that may involve many educational professionals. Advocacy ensures that children get the resources they need to access education effectively.
If you believe your child could benefit from educational advocacy, we encourage you to reach out to Parenting Matters. We’re here to help every child receive the support they need to succeed in school.