SPEAK UP: Turning Advocacy into Action for Your Child’s Education

Join us for an exciting event where you will learn how to advocate effectively for your child's education! Our expert speakers will share valuable insights on how to turn advocacy into action. Don't miss this opportunity to empower yourself and make a difference in your child's educational journey. This event is in person, so come ready to engage with other parents and educators who are passionate about supporting children's learning. Let's work together to make a positive impact on education!

$100/person

Reserve your spot today with $45. Balance will be due by January 10th.

All attendees who registers by December 1st will receive a copy of both Thoughtful Parent's Guide and Burnt Out, Not Burnt Up by Jill Center. If you register after December 1st, you will receive one of the two titles.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is SPEAK UP?
SPEAK UP stands for Strategic Prepared Effective Advocacy for Kids Used by Parents. It's a hands-on, 3-hour workshop that teaches parents practical skills for advocating in IEP and 504 meetings. Unlike lectures or online courses, you'll actually practice what to say and how to say it with other parents who understand your challenges.

Who is this workshop for?
This workshop is perfect for:

• Parents new to special education who feel overwhelmed
• Experienced parents who want more effective strategies
• Grandparents, caregivers, or family members who attend school meetings
• Parents frustrated with current IEP/504 outcomes
• Anyone who wants to be a stronger advocate for their child
• Parents preparing for upcoming IEP/504 meetings
• 
  

What will I learn?
You'll learn practical skills including:

• How to write emails that get responses
• What to say when schools say "no"
• How to document effectively
• De-escalation techniques for difficult conversations
• Your rights under IDEA and Section 504
• How to prepare for and lead productive meetings
• Building collaborative relationships while staying firm
• 
  

Is this just another lecture about my rights?
No! While we cover essential rights, the focus is on PRACTICE. You'll role-play real scenarios, transform emotional reactions into professional responses, and leave with actual scripts you can use Monday morning.

Who teaches the workshop?
Jill from ACE Resources leads the workshop. She's a parent advocate with 15+ years of personal experience navigating special education for her own children, author of multiple books on advocacy, and has helped hundreds of families in the Greater Houston area get appropriate services for their children.

How long is the workshop?
The workshop is 3 hours and 15 minutes, including:

• 45-minute opening presentation
• 20-minute Q&A
• 10-minute break
• 90-minute hands-on workshop activities
• 15-minute closing and action planning
• 
  

Is there parking available?
Yes! St. Aidan's Episcopal Church has ample free parking. The venue is wheelchair accessible with designated parking spaces near the entrance.

Will lunch be provided?
We provide a snack pack including water, fruit and assorted snacks. The workshop is 12:30-3:45 PM, so we recommend eating lunch beforehand.

What should I bring?
Just bring yourself and a willingness to learn! We provide everything else:

• All materials and supplies
• Pen and highlighter
• Your binder and handouts
• Snacks and water

Optional: Bring your current IEP/504 if you want specific guidance, and a phone/tablet for digital resources.

What should I wear?
Dress comfortably! This is a casual, supportive environment. Many parents come in jeans and comfortable shoes. The venue is climate-controlled.

WORKSHOP CONTENT
Do I need to know anything about special education before attending?
No prior knowledge needed! We welcome parents at all experience levels. We start with basics and build from there. Experienced parents will learn advanced strategies while newcomers learn fundamentals.

Will this apply to my specific situation?
Yes! While every child's situation is unique, the communication and advocacy strategies we teach apply to all IEP and 504 meetings. You'll have opportunities to ask questions about your specific challenges.

What if my child doesn't have an IEP or 504 yet?
Perfect timing! You'll learn how to request evaluations, what to expect in the process, and how to advocate from the very beginning. Starting with these skills will save you years of frustration.

Is this workshop specific to Texas?
While we reference Texas regulations and local resources, the core advocacy skills apply nationwide. The strategies for communication, documentation, and collaboration work everywhere. Federal laws (IDEA and Section 504) apply to all states.

Can I ask questions about my specific case?
Yes, within reason. While we can't provide individual legal advice, we have Q&A time and can address general strategies for your type of situation. For detailed case consultation, we offer follow-up appointments.

ACCOMMODATIONS & SPECIAL NEEDS
Is the venue wheelchair accessible?
Yes, St. Aidan's Episcopal Church is fully wheelchair accessible with ramps and accessible restrooms.

Can I bring my child?
While we love kids, this workshop is designed for parents to focus and practice. We recommend arranging childcare. If you absolutely cannot find childcare, please contact us to discuss options.

What if I have dietary restrictions?
Please email [email protected] any dietary restrictions after you register. Our standard snack pack can be modified for most dietary needs. You're also welcome to bring your own snacks.

What if I need other accommodations?
Please contact us at (281) 787-9100 or email us at [email protected]. We can arrange for:

• Large print materials
• Preferred seating
• Frequent breaks
• Other reasonable accommodations
• 
  

Is there a virtual option?
This January 10 workshop is in-person only to allow for hands-on practice and peer interaction. We may offer virtual options in the future.

AFTER THE WORKSHOP
Will I get a certificate?
Yes! All participants receive a Certificate of Completion. Some employers accept this for professional development credit. Check with your HR department.

Can I get continuing education credit?
While we don't offer formal CEUs, many professionals have successfully used certificates for:

• Professional development requirements
• Parent education hours
• Advocacy training documentation
• 
  

What ongoing support is available?
After the workshop, you have access to:

• Future workshop discounts
• Individual consultation services
• Email support for quick questions
• 
  

Can I attend again in the future?
Absolutely! Alumni receive a 25% discount on future SPEAK UP workshops.

REGISTRATION POLICIES
What's your cancellation policy?

• Partial credit toward future workshop or consultation services only. Materials from workshop will be available for pick up.
• 
  

What if the workshop is cancelled by ACE Resources?
If we must cancel due to severe weather or emergency:
Full refund offered, or Transfer to next workshop date

• We'll notify all registered participants by noon the day before
• 
  

Can I transfer my registration to someone else?
Yes! If you can't attend, you may transfer your registration to another person. Please notify us by January 8 with the new attendee's name and contact information.

What if I register but then can't attend?
Contact us as soon as possible. Depending on timing, we can offer a credit or transfer. We can also mail your materials for a small shipping fee.

OTHER COMMON QUESTIONS
Can my spouse/partner attend with me?
Each person needs their own registration. You'll each receive full materials.

What if I'm not comfortable with group activities?
All activities are supportive and non-judgmental. No one is forced to participate, and you can observe if you prefer. Most parents find the practice invaluable and the environment very safe.

Can I see the materials before registering?
The full materials are exclusive to workshop participants to maintain their value and effectiveness.

Will this make the school mad at me?
Actually, the opposite! The strategies we teach focus on collaboration and professional communication. Schools often respond better to parents who advocate effectively and professionally.

I'm already working with an advocate/attorney. Should I still attend?
Yes! This workshop complements professional advocacy services. You'll learn skills to be more effective between professional consultations and save money by handling routine advocacy yourself.

STILL HAVE QUESTIONS?
We're here to help! Contact us:
Phone: (281)787-9100 (call or text)
Email: [email protected]
Website: iephtx.com
Facebook: ACE Resources

READY TO REGISTER?
Don't wait!

Limited to 45 participants - Register today!