PHILOSOPHY:

 Over 6 million children receive special education in the United States.  In Maine, almost 35,000, or 18 percent of all public school children receive special education services.  Their families rely on school districts to provide a free, appropriate public education as mandated by federal law.  Parents must not only serve as primary care providers, but also as advocates for their children.  Midcoast Advocacy assists families to ensure their children receive the services appropriate to their disability.

SERVICES:

• Negotiating effective, well-designed IEP / 504 plans. 
• Collaborating with school personnel in developing appropriate goals, objectives, and behavior management systems toward academic success.
• Attend and participate in meetings, conferences, and school events.
• Serve as a liaison between families and schools, including phone calls to schools and district personnel.
• Write letters to schools, district personnel.
• Provide coaching, consultation, & strategic development for attaining supports & services.
• Family education regarding case law other legislation such as the Individuals with Disabilities Act 2004 (IDEA), & No Child Left Behind 2001 (NCLB).
• Assess current and potential educational placements.

ABOUT THE ADVOCATE:

Buckley J. Hugo is the proud father of a 12-year old, autistic son, for whom Mr. Hugo has negotiated highly regarded special education services since his son was first diagnosed at age 4.    Prior to founding Midcoast Advocacy, Mr. Hugo worked for 20 years in the music industry negotiating agreements with renown songwriters and entertainment attorneys.  He applies years of experience working with school districts obtaining the services to which individuals are entitled under the law.   Mr. Hugo is a member of the Autism Society of Maine, the Council of Parent Attorneys and Advocates (COPAA), and has successfully participated in the Wrightslaw Special Education and Advocacy Conference.