Free Virtual Parent Training Sessions
2025-2026
"Michelle was truly amazing. She shared so many good tips, explained the topics and gave examples.
I learned so much and I thought I knew a lot already. Great teacher!!" - Julie
Note: Our parent training sessions are offered through a partnership with Grossmont College. Please note that when you click the registration link, you will be directed to Grossmont College’s registration portal to complete your enrollment.
Understanding Evaluations
Evaluations provide critical information that shapes eligibility, services, and supports. In this workshop, caregivers will learn how to interpret psychoeducational evaluations, understand eligibility categories, identify concerns with incomplete or inaccurate assessments, and determine when an Independent Educational Evaluation (IEE) may be appropriate. Participants will also explore how to use evaluation data effectively when advocating for services.
Friday, September 25, 2026, 6:00pm - 8:00 pm
Behavior & Discipline Rights
Behavioral challenges can have significant educational consequences if families are not aware of their rights. This workshop explores Functional Behavioral Assessments (FBAs), Behavior Intervention Plans (BIPs), discipline protections under IDEA, Manifestation Determination Reviews (MDRs), and what parents should know about suspensions and removals. Practical de-escalation strategies for home will also be discussed.
Tuesday, October 6, 2026, 9:30 am-11:30 am
Behavior & Discipline Rights
Behavioral challenges can have significant educational consequences if families are not aware of their rights. This workshop explores Functional Behavioral Assessments (FBAs), Behavior Intervention Plans (BIPs), discipline protections under IDEA, Manifestation Determination Reviews (MDRs), and what parents should know about suspensions and removals. Practical de-escalation strategies for home will also be discussed.
Monday, October 12, 2026, 6:00pm - 8:00 pm
Advocacy Skills for Parents
Effective advocacy begins with clear communication and preparation. This workshop provides practical tools to help caregivers communicate with school teams, document concerns, prepare for difficult meetings, and navigate disagreements constructively. Participants will learn strategies for staying calm under pressure while advocating confidently for their child’s educational needs.
Tues., November 3, 2026, 9:30 am - 11:30 am
Advocacy Skills for Parents
Effective advocacy begins with clear communication and preparation. This workshop provides practical tools to help caregivers communicate with school teams, document concerns, prepare for difficult meetings, and navigate disagreements constructively. Participants will learn strategies for staying calm under pressure while advocating confidently for their child’s educational needs.
Friday, November 6, 2026, 6:00pm - 8:00 pm
Mid-Year Progress Check
Mid-year is the perfect time to evaluate whether your child’s educational plan is working. This workshop helps caregivers understand progress reports, identify when progress may be insufficient, determine when an IEP meeting should be requested, and develop systems for tracking progress and organizing records throughout the year.
Wednesday, December 9, 2026 6:00 pm-8:00 pm
Mid-Year Progress Check
Mid-year is the perfect time to evaluate whether your child’s educational plan is working. This workshop helps caregivers understand progress reports, identify when progress may be insufficient, determine when an IEP meeting should be requested, and develop systems for tracking progress and organizing records throughout the year.
Fri., December 18, 2026, 9:30 am - 11:30 am
"This class has been the most valuable next to adult adoptee panels for me as a caregiver.
I wish it could be expanded to a two or three part course.
I wish I would have had this ten years ago to advocate for youth." - Nora
"Hi Michelle,
I just wanted to follow up and thank you again for partnering with FAKCE and delivering two incredibly impactful sessions of Overview of Special Education – IEP Supports & Services: A Parent’s Guide. Participant feedback from both classes has been nothing short of outstanding. You received perfect scores across every single evaluation category from every attendee, which is truly exceptional. Caregivers consistently noted how clear, organized, and empowering your presentation was, and many shared that your real-world advocacy experience gave them confidence to better support their children. It’s clear that your dedication and expertise resonated deeply with our families. On a personal note, my husband an I attended one of your sessions after our very first IEP meeting and were so thankful to have done so, as we feel so much more prepared for the next round."
- Juliana Vega, Program Coordinator, FAKCE, Grossmont College