Sample interview questions: Share an example of when you had to advocate for a client’s access to educational resources or accommodations.
Sample answer:
As a social worker, I encountered a situation where I needed to advocate for a client’s access to educational resources and accommodations. The client, whom I’ll call Sarah, was a bright and capable high school student with a learning disability. She struggled with reading comprehension and processing information, making it challenging for her to keep up with the pace of her classes.
Upon reviewing Sarah’s educational history and conducting assessments, it became evident that she required specialized support to succeed in school. I reached out to Sarah’s school, advocating for an Individualized Education Program (IEP) that would provide her with the necessary accommodations.
During the IEP meeting, I presented a comprehensive plan outlining Sarah’s strengths, needs, and proposed accommodations. I emphasized the importance of providing her with extra time to complete assignments, access to audiobooks and assistive technology, and a quiet space for taking tests. I also advocated for a resource room where she could receive individualized instruction from a special education teacher.
My advocacy efforts were met with resistance from some members of the school team, who expressed concerns about the additional resources required and the potential impact on other students. However, I persisted, emphasizing Sarah’s right to an equitable education and the benefits of early intervention. I shared research studies demonstrating the effectiveness of these accommodations in improving the academic outcomes of students with learning disabilities.
After a lengthy discussion, the school agreed to implement the IEP. As a result, Sarah received the support she needed to thrive academically. Her grades improved, and she gained confidence in her abilities. She … Read full answer