Episode 5: A Parent's Perspective on Navigating and Advocating within Special Education, with Gisela A Burks

Join host Colleen and guest Gisela A Burks as they delve into the intricacies of the IEP process from a parent's viewpoint. Gisela shares her journey navigating autism diagnoses, the challenges of advocating for her child, and the importance of understanding and inclusion in education. Gisela A Burks is a dedicated mother and advocate for her autistic son, Jeremiah. With a background in human resources, she brings a unique perspective to the challenges faced by parents in the special education system.

Find Gisela on instagram @giselllaa

Find Colleen on instagram @theadvocate.slp

To submit a voice recording on what it feels like for you the night before an IEP meeting, go to https://www.speakpipe.com/UnfilteredIEPs

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Key Topics:

The emotional journey of receiving an autism diagnosis.

Differences between insurance and school evaluations.

Issues than can arise transitioning from a highly supportive special-education preschool to a general education kindergarten class.

Advocacy and the importance of being a "squeaky wheel" and "making yourself known."

DISCLAIMER: Colleen is a licensed speech-language pathologist and non-attorney special education advocate, however nothing stated in The Unfiltered IEPs Podcast should be taken as medical or legal advice and is her expressed opinion.