Become a Voice for a Child in Need

Join Maryland’s Parent Surrogate Program

Every child deserves an advocate. You can be theirs. When a child with a disability does not have a parent or guardian available to participate in the special education process, the Parent Surrogate Program steps in to ensure their rights are protected and their needs are heard. We’re looking for compassionate, dedicated individuals to serve as parent surrogates across Maryland

What is a Parent Surrogate?

A parent surrogate is a trained volunteer appointed to act in place of a biological or legal parent in special education decision-making. Parent surrogates attend IEP or IFSP meetings, review evaluations, and help ensure the child receives the services and supports they need to succeed.

Surrogates are appointed for students in foster care, group homes, shelters, or those whose parents cannot be located or do not participate.

Why It Matters

Children with disabilities already face unique challenges in school. Without a parent or guardian to advocate for them, they’re at greater risk of falling behind, being misunderstood, or missing out on services that could help them thrive.

As a surrogate, you’ll:

• Speak up for a child’s best interests
• Ensure their voice is heard in educational planning
• Make a meaningful impact in their academic journey

Why We Need You!

Parent surrogates are needed to ensure that every child with a disability has someone to advocate for their rights and needs in the early intervention or special education process. They are appointed when:

1. The child's parents are unavailable or unknown – If no parent can be identified or located after reasonable efforts.
2. The child is a ward of the state – For children under state custody, such as foster care, where no parent is involved in decision-making.
3. The child is an unaccompanied homeless youth – To provide support for children without a parent or guardian.

Parent surrogates' step in to make sure these children receive appropriate services and education, protecting their right to a Free Appropriate Public Education (FAPE) under the law. Without a surrogate, these children might not have an advocate to ensure their needs are met.

Who Can Be a Surrogate Parent?

You don’t need to be a parent or educator to qualify! We’re looking for individuals who:

• Have no conflict of interest with the school system or service providers
• Are willing to attend meetings and training sessions
• Care about children and education
• Can commit to advocating for a student throughout the school year

Training and ongoing support will be provided.

How it Works

• Step 1: Determine Eligibility
• Step 2: Submit an Application
• Step 3: Complete Training and Certification
• Step 4: Get Matched with a Student
• Step 5: Begin Advocating

Ready to Get Started

Apply today to become a Parent Surrogate and help ensure every child gets the education they deserve.