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Upcoming Training Opportunity to Become an Educational Surrogate Parent (ESP)

This image is a flyer for an upcoming training opportunity. **Header:** * *Upcoming Training Opportunity* * **Monday, September 8th, 2025** * **9:00 AM to 2:00 PM** * *Via Zoom* **Main Title (centered):** “Support a Student’s Journey Through Special Education – Become an Educational Surrogate Parent in Illinois!” **Left Section (What’s an Educational Surrogate Parent?):** An ESP is a trained volunteer who: * Attends IEP (Individualized Education Program) meetings * Reviews educational records and evaluations * Makes informed decisions for the student * Advocates for services and supports under IDEA Below this text is an image of a teacher and student standing in front of a chalkboard, both smiling and giving thumbs-up. **Right Section (Why Volunteer?):** * You will provide assistance to a student in need of support. * You’ll ensure schools follow the law. * You’ll help a student thrive academically and emotionally. * You’ll receive free training and ongoing support. * No experience necessary! Above this text is a photo of a woman helping a child with schoolwork at a table, with a laptop nearby. **Bottom Section:** Logos for the **Illinois State Board of Education** and **Family Matters Parent Training and Information Center** appear. **Disclaimer (bottom):** Explains that the Educational Surrogate Parent (ESP) Program is administered by the Illinois State Board of Education (ISBE). Family Matters PTIC, a federally funded Parent Training and Information Center, receives a grant from ISBE to provide onboarding training and support for new and current Educational Surrogate Parents.

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Upcoming Training Opportunity to Become an Educational Surrogate Parent (ESP)

On Monday, September 8th, 2025, the Illinois State Board of Education and Family Matters Parent Training and Information Center are hosting a free virtual training on Zoom from 9:00 AM to 2:00 PM.

This training will show you how to become an Educational Surrogate Parent (ESP)—a volunteer who steps in to support students with disabilities when their parents can’t. ESPs attend IEP meetings, review school records, and speak up to make sure each student’s needs are being met. Don’t worry—no experience is needed! You’ll get all the training and support you need to feel confident in the role.

One day of training could change a student’s entire school journey.

REGISTER