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LGCA State Support Team 4

Parent Mentor

PARENT MENTOR UPDATES & NEWS

I am Michelle Frygier and I am the Parent Mentor for Geauga County through the ESC of the Western Reserve. A unique aspect of this position is that Parent Mentors provide guidance based on a combination of training and personal first-hand experience. I am also a parent of a child with a disability and I know it can be overwhelming and confusing at times and this is when the Parent Mentor can assist and offer some support and information. 

PARENT MENTOR FAMILY SERIES on April 26, 2021 from 6pm - 7:30pm
In collaboration with Ravenwood Health, I am excited to announce a special program "Restoring Resilience & Developing Strategies for Success!" on April 26, 2021 presented by Natalie Smith, LISW-S, CTP. 

Let’s face it. This year has been challenging. If you are feeling stressed it is ok! Our bodies are reacting to the chronic stress of a year long global pandemic. I hope you will join me as we learn about the ways in which the pandemic has affected both parents and children. We will discuss ways in which the stress and anxiety of the pandemic can be used as a catalyst to foster positive changes, growth and resilience! Several strategies for managing stress and anxiety for all age levels of children as well as adults will be learned.

For additional information and the Zoom link, please click on the links on the right. I hope you can join us!

PLEASE SEE THE WINDOWS ON THE RIGHT FOR INFORMATION ON PROGRAMS, ARTICLES & MORE! 
I am always exploring new information and opportunities to post so check back often for articles, opportunities for programming, and for updated information on all aspects of special education. 

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The Geauga County Maple Leaf featured an article on my role as Parent Mentor in Geauga County on March 4, 2021. Here is the link to read the article.

WHAT IS A PARENT MENTOR?

The Parent Mentor provides information to Geauga County families with special needs children and supports the relationship between the school/district and the family in regards to education and services. A unique aspect of Parent Mentors is that they provide guidance based on a combination of training and personal first-hand experience. Since Parent Mentors themselves have children with disabilities, they are familiar with the special education system and can use their knowledge to help others.


HOW PARENT MENTORS PROVIDE SUPPORT

Parent Mentor Venn diagram

A Parent Mentor is a guide to help you navigate the special education process and to develop your skills as an advocate, the best advocate for your child. The role of the Parent Mentor assists by:


  • Guiding families through the special education process

  • Helping families understand their rights and responsibilities

  • Providing information and resources to families and the child’s schools. This includes education laws, district programs and updated information about special education

  • Engaging community services and other resources to support schools and families

  • Attending Individualized Education Program meetings and other meetings at parent or staff request

  • Listening to and supporting families and the child’s teachers on an individual basis

  • Connecting families, schools and communities to benefit students with disabilities

  • Helping families through the transition process from preschool to school and from high school and beyond

  • Hosting information sessions for families and staff members

HOW PARENT MENTORS ARE FUNDED

There is no cost to you for Parent Mentor services. The Ohio Parent Mentor Project is funded through grants from the Ohio Department of Education.

DISTRICTS SERVED

Berkshire Local Schools
Cardinal Local Schools
Chardon Local Schools
Kenston Local Schools
West Geauga Local Schools

CONTACT INFORMATION

Michelle Frygier pictured
Michelle Frygier
Parent Mentor, Geauga County
Phone: 440-635-6713

BROCHURE AND FAMILY LETTER

Letter to families from 2020-2021 Parent Mentor
Informational handout provided by the Ohio Department of Education
Informational brochure provided by the Ohio Department of Education