just three quick steps

This is a community for parents with children in special education who want to come together to share their successes, struggles, and just plain-old life with people who get it.

No! We understand that this connection and information is helpful for parents who do not yet have kiddos in special education. You may have a child on a 504, another school plan, or have questions about getting familiar with special education processes if you have concerns about your child in school. However, though you do not have to have a child in special education, please be mindful that this is a safe place for parents deeply invested in this topic. Please apply only if this community would enhance your ability to support your child, and if you can help others do so as well.

This is such a valid question. Special education can be so overwhelming, confusing, and frustrating. I see you if you are someone who needs a place to vent about the difficult experiences you’ve had. We want to hear about your struggles here. It is such an important part of your experience. This community’s focus is on hearing those struggles in a forward-thinking, productive way where we validate you and help you find the best next steps without the stress of too much negativity weighing you down.

There are two reasons for this. One, truly special communities are built on trust and belonging. To cultivate that, it is our responsibility to make sure that our members share similar values. This does not mean that there will be no moments of conflict. This means that members agree to approach that conflict and all discussions with empathy, an open mind, and a consideration of human rights at their core.

Two, we respect that you want to know where you are investing your time, energy, and finances. We do not want you to pay to become a part of the team that turns out not to be best for you. Transparency is very important to us.

Yes! Any question you post to the community or direct message to the founder will be answered by either the founder or another community member if someone has already stepped up to give a great response. We promise. We do not monitor private conversations, so we cannot ensure that direct messages to anyone who is not the founder will be answered.

This is a great question. It totally makes sense to wonder why you would pay for a community that seem to be offered for free elsewhere. This is a two part answer that highlights the value of the community.

The first part is logistical. This community has features that free communities typically do not. Once the community begins, we will be creating downloadable resources, courses, and webinars voted on my the founding members. You also have access to the founder within the community, carefully crafted group spaces, and live meet-ups.

The second is emotional. This community is carefully moderated to ensure it is a safe space to share, be supported, and get your questions answered. A membership fee helps potential applicants consider if this is truly the place they want to be.

Well, okay, that was hurtful. Look, this stuff gets really serious. Rightfully so. This is your child’s education. We believe that, while this being a serious topic, there is room for humor alongside the heavy moments. Laughter lifts you up. And, when you are lifted up, you can do more powerful work.

No! There will be ample written notice to members regarding changes in this area. Once the community does require a fee, members will have to reapply if they choose and will only be charged once their application is accepted.

Two reasons. One, a lot of energy and thought has gone into the creation of this community. My hope is that it is informative, caring, thoughtful, enriching and everything you’d wish for in a community for such an important group of people. I believe that fully developing that idea and meeting that goal requires learning from the real-life people in the group and not just sitting behind a website.

Two, I want to. Part of the answer is that simple. The vibes related to education are ~ gestures vaguely ~ bad right now. I have wanted to give back in a way that I feel best lends my skills in the area. And, you’re looking at it!