Event Calendar

Educational Surrogate Parent (ESP) Refresher Training

Stay informed, strengthen your advocacy skills, and continue making a difference for students. Join our ESP Refresher Training designed to support currently certified Educational Surrogate Parents.

Training Topics Include:

Updates on state and federal special education law

A review of ESP roles and responsibilities

Scenario-based skill building to strengthen real-world advocacy

Practical advocacy tools for IEP meetings

If you have not completed an ESP refresher training within the past three years, we encourage you to attend one of the available sessions. Refresher training is an expectation outlined in the ESP handbook, and completing it helps ensure you can continue serving as an active Educational Surrogate Parent (ESP).

Please note:
Refresher trainings are intended for currently certified ESPs. If you are interested in becoming an Educational Surrogate Parent, you will need to complete the full five-hour ESP training rather than the refresher session.

The Educational Surrogate Parent (ESP) Program is administered by the Illinois State Board of Education (ISBE). Family Matters Parent Training and Information Center (FMPTIC) receives federal funding from ISBE to provide training and ongoing support for both new and current Educational Surrogate Parents.

Join us to refresh your knowledge, connect with other advocates, and continue supporting students who need a voice.