• To serve as a liaison among families, school, and the community.
• To train parents in ways to advocate for their children.
• To provide opportunities for school personnel to obtain information and skills to enhance family involvement.

The Parental Advocacy Program

Assist families of students in Pinellas County by serving as a bridge between parents and schools. The program provides support to parents when responding to concerns about:

• Advancement
• Retention
• Discipline
• Suspension
• Expulsion
• Special Needs of Students
• Other Educational Concerns

Frequently Asked Questions

My child has a 504 plan and I don’t think all of the accommodations are in place.  What should I do? 

First, check with the teacher or service provider to ensure that they are aware of and enacting all accommodations per the plan.  If you still feel that the staff is not providing the appropriate accommodations, then the principal should be notified.  The principal will then investigate your concerns with the relevant staff members.

 

My child has a 504 plan or IEP.  I’m thinking about using a McKay scholarship to move to another public school in the county.  If I provide my student’s transportation, what is the next step? 

You can call 588-6000 ext. 1373.  This is the number to the Pinellas County Schools McKay Office.  They can assist you with any questions you might have.

 

I’m seeking an initial Exceptional Student Education evaluation? What happens next?

The school and parent need to meet within 30 days of the parent request to do one of the following:

• Sign consent for evaluation
• Provide written notice of refusal for all or parts of the request
• Agree to some alternate course of action that is clearly documented and signed by the parent

 

If you would like to ask a question, discuss a concern, or report an issue, then please visit the Parent Advocacy Form

You may share, discuss, or report your concerns online. Your report will be reviewed and a parent advocate will call you back as soon as possible. 

 

Parental Advocate Contact:
Mr. David Lawson