Why is it important for teachers to become partners with parents in advocating for the rights and services of children with disabilities?

Question

What will be an ideal response?

Answer 1

Unfortunately, many parents, especially those of children with disabilities, are deeply dissatisfied with the education their children receive. Parents sometimes complain that teachers are not trained to deal with challenges of specific disabilities, and many parents have even considered taking legal action to secure an appropriate education for their children. For many families, such action would actually be impossible due to the tremendous cost of litigation. It is exceedingly difficult for families, especially those from diverse backgrounds, to go up against a school district and prove that it is not providing an appropriate education. When teachers and administrators are perceived to be partners in advocating for the rights and appropriate education of children with disabilities, parents are more likely to be satisfied. If teachers provides such excellent services that parents do not need to become advocates to solve major problems, or join with parents to be part of a solution rather than a problem, then children will be the ones who benefit the most.