Free Virtual Clinic Offers California Parents Educational Guidance and Support
Key areas of assistance:
- Special education
- English as a Second Language (ESL) / English Learners
- School discipline
- Discrimination and civil rights concerns in education
The Parental Readiness and Empowerment Program (PREP) of the Lawyers’ Committee for Civil Rights Under Law is launching a free, virtual e-clinic to help parents across California navigate school-related issues. Beginning September 6, 2016, PREP will offer virtual appointments that connect parents with pro bono advocates through video chat. These one-on-one sessions are designed to give parents practical guidance on special education, school discipline, services for English learners, and potential discrimination concerns.
Through PREP’s online platform, volunteers from law firms and corporations will work with parents in a secure, virtual setting to identify priorities and develop an actionable plan aimed at supporting each child’s educational success. Clients and volunteer advocates collaborate to clarify the issue, review relevant documents and rights, and outline next steps the family can take with the school or district. “PREP is excited to leverage technology and human capital at law firms and corporations to support parents in advocating for their children,” said Natasha Quiroga, Lawyers’ Committee PREP Manager and Senior Counsel. “The e-clinic will overcome geographical challenges and scheduling constraints to make an even larger impact on the lives of parents and children.”
Who the Clinic Serves
The e-clinic is intended for parents and guardians in California who have questions or concerns about their child’s education, particularly in these areas:
- Eligibility and services under special education law
- Student discipline procedures and rights
- Support for English learners and ESL-related needs
- Experiences or allegations of discrimination in schools
What to Expect
Appointments are free and conducted online, allowing families to connect with trained pro bono advocates without traveling. Sessions are available in English and Spanish. During a virtual appointment, advocates will listen to the parent’s concerns, review any provided documentation, discuss applicable rights and options, and help create a tailored action plan that the parent can use when engaging with school staff or pursuing further legal assistance.
When and Where
Intake for the e-clinic opens on Tuesday, September 6, 2016, and will continue throughout the school year. Services are provided online through PREP’s digital platform so parents can participate from home or any private location with internet access.
How to Sign Up
Interested parents should complete an intake form or call to schedule an appointment. To begin the intake process, visit: www.PREPparents.org or call 844-PREP-4-US (844-773-7487). Please have basic information about your child and the educational concern available when completing the intake form or speaking with intake staff.
About the Lawyers’ Committee for Civil Rights Under Law
The Lawyers’ Committee for Civil Rights Under Law is a nonpartisan, nonprofit organization founded in 1963 at the request of President John F. Kennedy to mobilize the private bar in providing legal services to address racial discrimination. For more than 50 years, the Lawyers’ Committee has pursued equal justice under law through legal advocacy and community partnerships. Its core work focuses on fair housing and community development; employment; voting rights; education; and criminal justice. PREP is one initiative within that broader mission aimed at empowering parents to secure fair educational opportunities for their children.
If you are a parent in California facing education-related concerns—especially those involving special education, school discipline, English language learning, or discrimination—the PREP e-clinic provides a confidential, no-cost way to receive guidance and begin planning next steps with an experienced pro bono advocate.