PARENT MENTOR PROGRAM

Definition: A parent mentor is the parent of a child with a disability who has volunteered to help other families by providing support, information, and training services on a one-to-one basis.

Parents interested in volunteering to become a STEPS mentor should click here to request more details about the program and required training.

The Parent Mentor Program:
• serves parents of children with disabilities or suspected disabilities from ages 3-21.
• is designed to provide information and support to families of children with disabilities and/or learning differences.
• serves to foster positive teamwork between parents and educational professionals.
• is a free service offered through the STEPS special education parent support group.

Support and Services:
• Guide parents through the special education process.
• Listen and answer questions on a one-on-one basis.
• Assist parents in becoming more involved in their child’s education by providing the support and information parents need.
• Supply information on Special Education services, policies, and procedures.
• Link parents to support groups, other parents and community resources.
• Help parents prepare for effective IEP and team meetings as needed.

Reasons to Call a Parent Mentor:
• I feel alone and wish I could talk to another parent who understands my concerns.
• I have many questions about my child’s education but forgot to ask them at the school meetings.
• I would like to be more involved in planning my child’s education.
• I am worried about my child’s progress and don’t know what to do.
• I feel like nobody is listening to my concerns about my child.
• I would like to have someone help me prepare for IEP and/or other meetings at school.

CLICK HERE TO CONTACT STEPS ABOUT CONNECTING WITH A PARENT MENTOR.