Christine asked Laurie Levy:

Congratulations on the publication of your first book! That's very inspirational to me. I'm also retired from the field of education- Early Childhood teacher, K & 2nd. I know the ropes, but as a parent of a teenaged twice-exceptional son, I find it difficult to advocate at school, wearing both my mom hat and teacher hat. His disabilities are recent, but he's in 11th gr. Any advice on getting staff to listen?

Laurie Levy Hi Christine! I totally understand your reluctance to push too hard. Former/current teachers have empathy for their colleagues and hate to make waves. All, parents want their children's teachers to like them and avoid any blow back for being *that* parent. But I do think you need to approach this solely as your son's advocate. Ask for meetings that include support staff and if there is anyone working with your son outside of school, bring that person along to be part of your team. Sometimes, getting schools to listen means being persistent, even if it makes you feel uncomfortable. When it comes to getting the school to meet your son's needs, wear only your mom hat.

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