At Cares Group, we are dedicated to upholding the highest standards of professional conduct and ethical practice in our mission to support individuals and families. Our commitment to ethical excellence is reflected in our membership with the Council of Parent Attorneys and Advocates (COPAA) and our adherence to the mandatory Code of Ethics established by the National Special Education Advocacy Institute (NSEAI).
Our Guiding Principles: The NSEAI Practice Act
We have adopted the National Special Education Advocacy Institute’s (NSEAI) Practice Act as our official Code of Ethics. This comprehensive and mandatory framework governs our professional conduct, ensuring that we provide services with the utmost integrity, competence, and respect for our clients. The NSEAI Practice Act is a rigorous set of standards that distinguishes itself from voluntary codes by being fully enforceable, which we believe is essential for consumer protection and the advancement of the special education advocacy profession
Core Tenets of the NSEAI Practice Act
The NSEAI Practice Act is built upon a foundation of key principles that guide our daily operations and decision-making processes. These principles are summarized in the table below:
Mandatory Adherence
Unlike voluntary codes, the NSEAI Practice Act is a mandatory and enforceable code of ethics. This ensures a consistent and high standard of practice among all Board Certified Education Advocates (BCEAs) .
Competence & Professional Development
We are committed to continuous learning and professional development. Our advocates are required to complete extensive training and maintain their expertise through ongoing education to ensure they are equipped with the latest knowledge and skills in special education advocacy .
Scope of Practice
Our advocates operate within a clearly defined scope of practice, providing expert consultation and support in areas such as Individualized Education Program (IEP) development, understanding educational and civil rights, and navigating the special education system .
Professional Behavior
We adhere to strict guidelines for professional behavior, which include acting with honesty, integrity, and civility in all interactions. We are committed to non-discrimination and providing services in a respectful and culturally competent manner .
Conflict of Interest
We are vigilant in identifying and managing potential conflicts of interest to ensure that our clients’ best interests are always our top priority. Full disclosure and transparency are central to our practice .
Confidentiality
We maintain the strictest confidentiality of all client information and records. We have clear protocols for the secure handling of sensitive data, and we obtain written consent before sharing any information .
Our Affiliation with COPAA
In addition to our adherence to the NSEAI Practice Act, Cares Group is a proud member of the Council of Parent Attorneys and Advocates (COPAA). COPAA is a national organization dedicated to protecting the legal and civil rights of students with disabilities and their families. As members of COPAA, we align ourselves with their Voluntary Code of Ethics, which further reinforces our commitment to ethical practice and professional excellence. COPAA’s code emphasizes principles of competence, client-centered responsibilities, and professionalism, which are fully compatible with our core ethical framework .
Our Pledge to You
By embracing the mandatory standards of the NSEAI Practice Act and the guiding principles of COPAA, we at Cares Group pledge to provide you with the highest quality of service, grounded in a strong ethical foundation. We are committed to being a trusted partner in your journey, advocating for the rights and needs of your loved ones with professionalism, dedication, and unwavering integrity.