Maria Docherty

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