SPAN Parent Advocacy Network

SPAN Parent Advocacy Network—an independent, parent-led non-profit organization—is committed to empowering and supporting parents as advocates for improving the lives of children. Our foremost commitment is to those with greatest need due to:

- Disability or special health/mental health needs

- Material poverty or financial instability

- Discrimination (race, sex, language, immigrant status, homelessness, etc.)

- Involvement in the foster care, child welfare, or juvenile justice systems

- Geographic location

- Other special circumstances

Our programs/services for families, professionals, and others interested in the healthy development and education of children and youth include workshops, publications, direct support, and policy advocacy. We are committed to assisting parents in becoming informed and empowered advocates as they negotiate the systems serving children and families including education (general, special education, bilingual education and Title I), and health care.

SPAN HELPS FAMILIES:

KNOW their rights

ACCESS resources and information

SECURE appropriate services

NAVIGATE education, health, mental health systems

KEEP children in school

PREPARE for life after high school

CONNECT with other parents who understand

BE catalysts to improve services for children and families

START parent groups

BECOME effective partners in improving schools

ADVOCATE for other children and families