The Montgomery County Public Schools (MCPS) Department of Special Education is seeking parent surrogates to help students with disabilities through the special education decision-making process. A parent surrogate is necessary for children who do not have a parent or guardian to act as an educational advocate for the student during this process.

Although no special training is required, the surrogate must have the knowledge and skills to ensure adequate representation of the child. The surrogate helps plan the student’s Individualized Education Program (IEP), which determines what services, programs, or accommodations the student needs.

The criteria for selection of a parent surrogate are:

1. The surrogate can not be an employee of a public agency involved in the care and education of the child entrusted to that parent surrogate.

2. The surrogate has no interest that conflicts with the interest of the child he or she represents.

3. The surrogate has knowledge and skills that ensure adequate representation of the child.

4. The surrogate can withdraw from responsibility at any time as long as a 30 day notice is given.

If you would like to obtain information on how to assist a child by becoming a parent surrogate, please contact Debra Berner or Tanya Chun in the Montgomery County Public Schools Department of Special Education at 301-279-3135.