Time
6:00–7:30 p.m.
Thursdays
Aug. 20: Kickoff - Prepare to advocate for your child
Sept. 10: IEP/504 form walkthrough
Sept. 24: Understanding the assessment process for IEP/504s
Oct. 8: Mock IEP meeting
Oct. 29: Identifying helpful accommodations, data tracking at home
Location
SAFE Coalition
Franklin
Who this group is for
This group is for parents, grandparents, foster parents, and caregivers of children who have:
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An IEP (Individualized Education Program)
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A 504 plan
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Learning differences or developmental needs
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and/or Health-related diagnoses affecting school
Whether your child is in elementary school, middle school, or high school—and whether you're brand new to special education or years into the journey—you're welcome here!
Benefits of Joining
Connection with people who get it
Meet other caregivers facing the same challenges—no need to explain what an IEP meeting feels like or why you're exhausted.
Practical advocacy strategies
Learn how to communicate effectively with schools, understand your rights, and prepare for meetings with confidence.
Resources you can actually use
Get curated tools for organizing documentation, tracking goals, and navigating school systems—not a generic brochure.
A space to breathe
Caregiving is hard. This is a judgment-free space to share what's working, what's not, and feel supported along the way.
What to Expect
Each session, we'll gather for 90 minutes of guided discussion, skill-building, peer support, and knowledgeable guest speakers. You're not sitting through a lecture. This is a conversation.
You can share as much or as little as you're comfortable with. Some sessions you might need to vent, other sessions you might just want to listen. Both are welcome. Topics are created and will be adjusted to meet the groups needs as we move through the school year.
Karen has spent her career supporting children and families, including 11 years as a foster parent, work as a Family Liaison with MSPCC, and co-facilitating foster parent licensing training. She holds a master's in social work and has provided in-home therapy and behavioral health services to individuals and families. She brings warmth, lived experience, and deep expertise to every group she facilitates.