From a Middle School Parent (June 2021):
“Working with Marcy has been a game-changer for our family. Marcy is knowledgeable and empathetic but most importantly she knows how to advocate for children while keeping a productive relationship with school administration. More than once, we’ve received unsolicited feedback from special education teams that Marcy’s approach is respectful and constructive. This is all the more notable because in many situations Marcy has successfully negotiated far more services and supports for our child than the school was originally prepared to give. I recommend working with Marcy with no qualifications or disclaimers. She’s a true asset. – Parent from Natick”
From a Parent of an Elementary School Student (November 2012):
Working with Marcy was a turning point in finding answers for our seven-year old son, Ben, who struggles with dyslexia and a speech disorder. She immediately provided value in navigating a system that is often confusing and contradictory — as well as a holistic view of possible dietary, behavioral, and family strategies to consider. Just as important, Marcy has the compassion and wisdom of a mom who has advocated for her own kids and seen powerful results.
Reaching out for Marcy’s guidance early in our son’s journey was critical. I truly believe that the advice and support she gave us prevented months, if not years, of the wrong interventions and frustration. Just when we needed it, Marcy was an invaluable resource
From a Parent of a High School Student (Spring 2013):
Marcy Kaplan is a fabulous advocate. Her legal background and experience make her an effective orator which everyone in the room wants to listen to. Marcy can articulate issues in such a manner that my daughter’s school did not feel threatened (although I have no doubt she could have effectively made them feel that way as well), and towards the end of our various meetings, it was shocking when the school’s Legal Counsel was coming up with ideas to help my daughter!
Marcy read through all the documents I provided, and really got to know and understand my daughter’s needs. This helped her stand up to the school system without being emotional (as a parent can be when they have to fight for their child). She advocated for my daughter like it was her own child and had a calm demeanor that was tough as nails.
Although Marcy was not acting as legal counsel, she helped us tremendously by being well versed with the school’s legal requirements. She also researched other programs, tools, and/or evaluations that could help my daughter, in addition to what the school was offering, and ensured as many of those programs were discussed during the school meetings and provided to my daughter.
Personal touches also make Marcy stand out, for example, she recommended that I bring a picture of my daughter to mediation, which changed the tone in the room the minute I took out the framed photo. She handled things professionally and respectfully while not allowing the school to get away with much. For example, the school tried to sneak in a form for my daughter to sign and pass it off as “nothing” and Marcy saw right through it and quelled the attempt.
If you are lucky enough to have Marcy as your advocate, you are in excellent hands. I highly recommend her to anyone needing an advocate!
