#118 Mark Courtepatte: FASD & IEPs

It’s back-to-school season, and with that comes IEPs, IPRCs, 504s, and education plans! If the terms or process are confusing and frustrating, we have you covered in this week’s podcast with Mark Courtepatte – one of the most popular Insider Experts in our CKS Coaching Program. But you don’t have to be in the program now to hear his expertise!

Mark is not your average FASD advocate! When he is not at his day job, he is very dedicated to his role as the Co-Chair of the Hamilton FASD Support Group. What started as a group of 5-6 individuals, Mark and his team have created significant programs, events, and advocacy in their home community and across Ontario. Through his FASD work, Mark has also taken an interest in the IPRC and IEP process, helping folks understand the process and their rights. Mark also has a unique perspective as he is a partner to someone with FASD.

I did not grow up as a disability advocate. I think like most of the population… I was typically uncomfortable, not sure what to do, how to act, or what to say.

We talk about how Mark came to meet Savanna, his partner, how they became involved with the Hamilton group, and how his interest in the education sector developed, as well as:

• Why, despite his deep respect for the medical field, he calls FASD the “I haven’t got a clue diagnosis.”
• What is the #1 thing he feels a caregiver should do to help their child with FASD
• How to be the best-armed advocate for your child in the school and community

We also discuss his growth as a partner to an individual with FASD.

I had to throw away everything I knew about relationships and how to be supportive. I made massive mistakes along the way. Not understanding. Not doing the right thing. She has been my biggest coach on what to do and how to do it.

This episode is full of insight on how to work collaboratively with teachers and the school board. Mark is just as comfortable talking to the Minister of Community. Children and Social Services as he is to overwhelmed caregivers or children with FASD. You will find out why he thinks 99% of IEPs are not worth the paper they are written and he gives you some concrete steps to follow from being confused and not sure how to proceed to becoming a confident advocate for your child. He provides some suggested rebuttals to resistance and gives you a gauge to know if the plan is working. You are going to find out why his workshops are one of the most popular in our CKS program.

Be sure to check out the show notes for a link to his awesome support group website where you can find out more information on education plans and links to workshops and events.

Show Notes:

Contact Mark or his Group: Hamilton FASD Parents & Caregivers Support Group

Check out our Facebook Page: FASD Caregiver Success

Join our Facebook Group: FASD Caregiver Success Group

Follow me on Twitter: @JeffjNoble

Support the show: Buy Me A Coffee