Q: How much does a surrogate parent need to know about the child's disability and where can this information be found?

A: To be an effective surrogate parent, it is helpful to acquire some information about the child's disability. The child's teacher, many state and national organizations, and the local library may have helpful information. PACER Center has a resource list of disability organizations (www.pacer.org).

Q: After the appointment, where can a surrogate parent obtain answers to questions?

A: First, contact the child's special education teacher, principal, or other school person who works with the child. Other sources of information are PACER Center, Minnesota's statewide parent training and information center; other parents of children with disabilities; and disability support groups.

Contact surrogate@pacer.org to ask PACER staff a surrogate parent question.