By Maryland Volunteer Lawyers Service
Maryland Volunteer Lawyers Service (MVLS), the state’s largest provider of pro bono legal services for low-income residents, has launched a new Special Education Project to make sure students with disabilities get the services and support they need to succeed in school.
Through this free project, eligible families can connect with experienced consultants, advocates and attorneys to help with Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) and school discipline issues.
MVLS Special Education Staff Attorney Payton Aldridge, a 2020 graduate of the University of Baltimore School of Law – with extensive experience in education advocacy and disability rights – leads the project. She is joined by D’Khyra McFadden, who was recently promoted from MVLS’ intake team and now serves as the project’s advocate.
“I’m honored to be part of this launch,” said Aldridge. “By expanding access to professional support, we can break down barriers, fight inequities and make sure students receive the special education services they deserve.”
The Special Education Project stems from HB903 (Access to Attorneys, Advocates and Consultants for Special Education Program and Fund), a 2024 Maryland law that created funding for special education attorneys, advocates and consultants. MVLS is partnering with Disability Rights Maryland, Project HEAL, The Parents’ Place of Maryland and other disability-focused organizations to make the project a success.
“When we were approached about creating the Special Education Project, saying yes was an easy decision,” said MVLS Executive Director Susan Francis. “At MVLS, removing barriers to justice is at the heart of what we do – and making sure every child has access to a meaningful education is a big part of that. We’re thrilled to see this initiative come to life and can’t wait to help families get the support they need so their children can thrive in school.”
MVLS is now recruiting experienced advocates, consultants and attorneys to join its panel. Panel members will be paid up to $200 per hour for work with qualifying clients. Interested persons can apply at https://mvlslaw.org/special-education-project-panel-member/.
About Maryland Volunteer Lawyers Service
Maryland Volunteer Lawyers Service (MVLS) removes barriers to justice through free civil legal help, community engagement and advocacy for equitable laws. The organization matches clients with volunteer lawyers, tax professionals and staff attorneys who represent them in a wide range of consumer finance, family and housing situations, including foreclosure, bankruptcy, divorce/custody, deed changes, as well as income tax disputes, estate planning and criminal record relief. MVLS advocates for racial equity in Maryland’s legal system and works in concert with community partners to move toward a fair legal system that is free of injustice and equitably serves underrepresented Marylanders. For more information, visit mvlslaw.org.
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