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Parent Mentor

PARENT MENTOR UPDATES & NEWS

Welcome to the Parent Mentor for Geauga County webpage through the ESC of the Western Reserve. A unique aspect of this position is that Parent Mentors provide guidance based on a combination of training and personal first-hand experience. 

PLEASE SEE THE WINDOWS ON THE RIGHT FOR INFORMATION ON PROGRAMS, ARTICLES & MORE! 

WHAT IS A PARENT MENTOR?

A Parent Mentor is the parent of a child or children with a disability who is employed by the local Educational Service Center to help families and school districts by providing support, information, and training services. Since it is vital that districts and families work together in a positive and productive fashion to benefit all students that are served by an IEP, 504 plan or with any special accommodation, the Parent Mentor is available to facilitate communication between families, teachers, and administrators, all the essential people of the child's planning team. Working together, as a unified team, can empower your child to succeed, not only in school, but in the years to come.

HOW PARENT MENTORS PROVIDE SUPPORT

Parent Mentor Venn diagram

A Parent Mentor is a guide to help you navigate the special education process and to develop your skills as an advocate, the best advocate for your child. The role of the Parent Mentor assists by:


  • Guiding families through the special education process

  • Helping families understand their rights and responsibilities

  • Providing information and resources to families and the child’s schools. This includes education laws, district programs and updated information about special education

  • Engaging community services and other resources to support schools and families

  • Attending Individualized Education Program meetings and other meetings at parent or staff request

  • Listening to and supporting families and the child’s teachers on an individual basis

  • Connecting families, schools and communities to benefit students with disabilities

  • Helping families through the transition process from preschool to school and from high school and beyond

  • Hosting information sessions for families and staff members

CONTACT INFORMATION

Parent Mentor, Geauga County
Michelle Hehr 

DISTRICTS SERVED

Berkshire Local Schools
Cardinal Local Schools
Chardon Local Schools
Kenston Local Schools
West Geauga Local Schools

Parent Mentor Services Flier

HOW PARENT MENTORS ARE FUNDED

There is no cost to you for Parent Mentor services. The Ohio Parent Mentor Project is funded through grants from the Ohio Department of Education.