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About.

Will Long

advocate, parent, & owner

My name is Will Long, and I am a dedicated Special Education Advocate, currently working toward my Juris Doctor (JD). Over the past five years, I’ve had the privilege of serving well over 200 families throughout California, supporting them in navigating the IEP process and securing the services their children deserve.

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As a member of the disability community and someone who had an IEP growing up, I understand firsthand how overwhelming and confusing special education systems can be. I bring both lived experience and professional expertise to this work—not only as an advocate but also as a parent who knows the importance of pursuing and protecting your child’s needs.

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My advocacy journey began in my 20s as a peer mentor for Autistic artists in Los Angeles and San Francisco. I completed formal advocacy training through the Council of Parent Attorneys and Advocates (COPAA) and fulfilled my practicum with the Community Alliance for Special Education in San Francisco. I went on to work as a full-time advocate at CASE until April 2025. I also worked at Family Resource Navigators in San Leandro through May 2024, supporting families across Alameda County as part of the Family Empowerment Center.

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Now, through my private practice, Long Advocacy, I offer comprehensive special education advocacy services aimed at helping families achieve the most appropriate and individualized educational plans for their children. I have also served as a trusted vendor for multiple Regional Centers through the Self-Determination Program, providing personalized, person-centered support to families across the state.

 

My advocacy work is driven by a persistent desire to help families navigate the complexities of special education. I believe that every child has the right to an equitable education, and I am dedicated to facilitating that journey for students with diverse abilities.

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"Will helped us navigate the IEP process effectively and efficiently. He took the time to get to know our son and worked with District staff to help create an IEP with appropriate goals. We highly recommend Long Advocacy."

— Jason and Margaret C.,

Newport-Mesa Unified School District

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Work Experience.

With a profound commitment to empowering individuals with disabilities, I bring a diverse and extensive background in special education advocacy. My experiences span a wide range of disabilities, allowing me to tailor my approach to meet the unique needs of each client. Here are some highlights of my journey:

Areas of Expertise

  • Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)

  • Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)

  • Dyslexia and Learning Differences

  • Persistent Drive for Autonomy (PDA)

  • Complex Medical Needs

  • Rare Medical Conditions

  • Due Process Preparation: I have meticulously prepared cases for legal representation, ensuring that all documentation is comprehensive and compelling for due process proceedings.

  • State Complaints: I have filed numerous successful complaints with the California Department of Education (CDE), addressing violations of educational rights and advocating for necessary changes.

  • Individualized Education Program (IEP) Negotiations: My most significant achievement lies in negotiating countless successful IEP documents. I have collaborated with numerous school districts across California, including:

    • San Francisco Unified School District (SFUSD)

    • Oakland Unified School District (OUSD)

    • West Contra Costa Unified School District

    • Mt. Diablo School District

    • South San Francisco Unified School District

    • Los Angeles Unified School District (LAUSD)

    • Torrance School District

    • Irvine School District

    • Charter SELPAs

Achievements

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