The IEP Table
Support for families
At The IEP Table, we believe that parents are the cornerstone of every IEP team. Our mission is to empower families through accessible resources and training.
We offer free monthly virtual training sessions and host engaging in-person events, all designed to equip parents and caregivers with the knowledge and confidence they need to become effective advocates for their children.
We invite you to connect with us and explore the possibility of hosting Kimberly and Amber at your next event. Together, we can collaborate to strengthen families' abilities to advocate effectively, and ensure brighter futures for our most vulnerable children!
March 5, 2024- Understanding your Procedural Safeguards
Understanding Your Rights: A Workshop on Procedural Safeguards in Special Education
Do you have a child with a disability who receives special education services? As a parent or guardian, it's important to understand the rights and protections guaranteed to you and your child under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA).
Join Amber Brinkman and Kimberly Charles for a free virtual workshop where we will demystify the legal jargon around procedural safeguards and help you understand these critical rights and processes that impact your child's education.
This Workshop will cover:
- Key terms and definitions related to the procedures and safeguards in IDEA
- Description of the different complaint processes
- Parental consent and when you can revoke consent
- Discipline procedures for students with disabilities, including manifestation determinations
- Unilateral placements in private schools and reimbursement
This workshop will provide clarity on the procedures in place to protect your rights as a parent or guardian. Resources and recording of the live workshop will also be shared with everyone who registers.
Leave with more confidence to advocate for your child as an active, informed member of the IEP team. This virtual workshop will be led by experienced advocates with over 20 years of experience at the IEP table.
Kimberly & Amber
Upcoming Events
- April CANCELED TBD: Transition Planning-Setting Up Your Child for Success Next Year
- May 8, 2024: End of Year Discussions: ESY, Summer Support, What worked and Worked & What Didn’t
- June 5, 2024: Graduation Transition Planning
About Us
Amber Brinkman
Amber began her journey at the IEP table first as a mom. She experienced firsthand the feelings of being overwhelmed by the complex process of advocating for her child with a disability.
Recognizing the long-term need for effective advocacy for her son, she dedicated herself to becoming well-versed in the intricacies of the IEP process.
Amber's advocacy business grew organically as more and more families reached out, seeking help to navigate their own IEP challenges. With over six years of lived experience both as a mom and advocate at the IEP table, Amber brings not just expertise but also deep empathy and an understanding of the unique challenges families face when raising a child with a disability.
Trained and certified through reputable institutions like COPAA, Wrightslaw, and Master IEP Coach®, Amber firmly believes in the invaluable role parents play in the IEP team. She dedicates her work to ensuring that the voices of parents are not just heard but reflected in the decisions and strategies laid out for their children's educational success.
In her advocacy, you will find not just a consultant but a partner, a fellow parent who has walked the walk, and an ally dedicated to seeing every child receive the support they need for a successful and inclusive educational experience.
Kimberly Charles
Kimberly is a steadfast supporter and advocate for parents of children with special needs, helping them navigate the complicated special education process. With a deep-seated belief that parents know their children best, Kimberly champions for their active, invaluable participation to ensure each child’s success in the special education journey.
With two decades of hands-on experience teaching special education to K-8 children across various states, Kimberly possesses a wealth of knowledge and insight. She decided to step out of the classroom but not away from education, shifting her focus and expertise to assist families at the IEP table. It's here where her experience truly shines, guiding families to secure the support their children need to thrive in school.
As a proud and active member of the Master IEP Coach Community®, Forsyth County IDD Advisory Board, and COPAA, Kimberly is committed to the advocacy and special education community. Her voice and insights have been showcased on platforms like The Autism Dad Podcast and The Master IEP Coach® Private Podcast.
Whether you’re just starting your special education journey or hitting a roadblock, Kimberly is here, ready to use her extensive experience and passion to ensure your child receives the support and opportunities they are entitled to.
Looking for an advocate?
Connect with Kimberly & Amber!
IMPORTANT: Kimberly Charles & Amber Brinkman are not attorneys and we do not give legal advice. All advocacy and IEP decisions are your own.