The current laws that mandate special education originated through the advocacy of families (Turnbull & Turnbull, 1990). Over the years, families have challenged the system to provide free and appropriate public educations for their children. We share, through qualitative measures, the experiences of one African American family and the educators who serve them trying to navigate the system as well as the obstacles they faced. Recommendations for P-12 practice, teacher education, and advocacy efforts are discussed.