Questions About IEP Advocacy for Military Families
Can’t find your answer? Reach out directly — every family’s situation is different.
What happens to my child’s IEP when we PCS?
Under IDEA 2004, the receiving school must provide services comparable to those in the prior IEP until it either adopts the existing IEP or develops a new one. In practice, “comparable” is often where the fight begins — schools sometimes delay meetings or propose downgraded services.
Does IDEA protect my child’s rights during a PCS move?
Yes. IDEA requires comparable services during the transfer window, and the Interstate Compact on Educational Opportunity for Military Children adds further protections specific to military-connected students moving between member states.
Can the new school change my child’s IEP without my consent after a PCS?
No. The receiving school can propose changes, but it must go through the IEP process with parent input before implementing a new IEP. Comparable services stay in place while that process happens.
How far in advance should I start the IEP transfer process?
As soon as you have orders. Requesting records early, contacting the losing and gaining school’s special education departments, and scheduling a meeting before you arrive all reduce the chance of a service gap.
Can I get IEP advocacy help virtually during a PCS move?
Yes. All advocacy support is available virtually, so families can get help before, during, and after a move — nationwide and at DoDEA/DoWEA schools worldwide.
What is the EFMP and how does it relate to my child’s IEP?
The Exceptional Family Member Program (EFMP) is a mandatory enrollment for service members whose family member has special medical or educational needs. It factors into assignment coordination but does not replace the IEP process — the school district still governs services.
What qualifications do you have to address our special education needs?
A graduate-level paralegal degree and a Special Education Law Certificate, both from the University of San Diego, plus firsthand experience at the IEP table with my own dyslexic child since 2006.
Do you only work with families in Georgia?
No. I have active clients nationwide and at Department of Defense Education Activity (DoDEA) schools worldwide, including active cases in California, Colorado, Georgia, Hawaii, and North Carolina. Georgia alone has 8 DoDEA schools.
Are you an attorney?
No. I am a paralegal who has worked across many areas of law and hold a Special Education Law Certificate. I don’t provide legal representation or represent families in due process hearings.
Can you help with both IEPs and 504 Plans?
Yes. I offer comprehensive IEP advocacy and 504 advocacy tailored to your child’s needs.
Legal training. Military life. Real results.
Hilary reads an IEP the way a paralegal reads a contract — line by line, looking for what’s missing. Her advocacy draws on IDEA, the Interstate Compact on Educational Opportunity for Military Children, and 34 C.F.R. § 300.323(f).
Not sure which of these applies to your situation? That’s exactly what a free consult is for.
Let’s talk about your student.
A free consultation is available for military and civilian families — nationwide and in DoDEA schools worldwide.
Or email hilarybreese@gmail.com | 404-987-7658
Need help with your child’s IEP or 504?
Let’s talk through what’s happening and what your family’s options are — no pressure, just clarity.
Copyright © 2026 The Dyslexia Life – All Rights Reserved. Hilary Reese hilarybreese@gmail.com 404-987-7658
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PCS IEP Help| DODEA SPECIAL EDUCATION ADVOCATE 