Every parent of a child with a disability wants the best possible education for their child. Navigating special education services, however, can be complex and overwhelming. As a result, many families seek assistance from special education advocates. While many advocates provide valuable support, Texas currently has no meaningful oversight of those who market themselves as experts in this field.
That should concern all of us.
As a former speech-language therapist, reading specialist, administrator, school board trustee, and current member of the Texas State Board of Education, I have spent more than 30 years working on behalf of students with disabilities. During that time, I have seen the tremendous difference knowledgeable professionals can make in helping families understand their rights and secure appropriate services for their children.
Unfortunately, I have also seen families pay thousands of dollars for advice from individuals who possess little or no formal training in special education law, educational assessment, instructional programming, or disability services.
Unlike teachers, speech-language pathologists, educational diagnosticians, counselors, psychologists, and attorneys, special education advocates are generally not required to be licensed, meet educational standards, complete continuing education, follow a professional code of ethics, or answer to a regulatory body.
As a result, virtually anyone can advertise themselves as a "special education expert" and charge families substantial fees regardless of their qualifications.
This lack of accountability creates risks for families. Parents may receive inaccurate information about federal and state special education laws, develop unrealistic expectations regarding services or placements, or become involved in unnecessary disputes that consume time and resources. When poor advice is given, families often have little recourse.
The impact extends beyond parents. School districts across Texas already face significant special education staffing shortages and compliance responsibilities. When educators must spend valuable time correcting misinformation or responding to unsupported claims, resources are diverted away from the students who need them most.
Texas has long been a leader in educational accountability and consumer protection. We license professionals whose work affects vulnerable populations because qualifications matter. The same principle should apply to individuals who charge families for special education guidance.
I believe Texas should consider establishing a professional framework for special education advocates that includes registration or licensing requirements, background checks, training in special education law, continuing education, consumer disclosures, ethical standards, and a complaint process for misconduct.
These reforms would not limit parental rights. Parents should always have the freedom to bring family members, friends, and trusted supporters to meetings. Rather, the goal is to ensure accountability for individuals who charge professional fees while representing themselves as experts.
Good advocates should welcome these standards. Professional regulation would distinguish qualified practitioners from those whose expertise is largely self-proclaimed.
Most importantly, it would protect families, preserve educational resources, and help ensure that decisions remain focused on student success.
Texas has the opportunity to lead the nation in this area. Our students with disabilities deserve nothing less.
