I understand how concerning it can be when you disagree with the school's evaluation results. Here are some suggestions for what you can do in this situation:

Start with Communication

Before taking formal steps, it's often helpful to initiate open communication with the school. Consider reaching...

The IEP and FAPE

When it comes to securing a Free and Appropriate Public Education (FAPE) for your child, the Individualized Education Program (IEP) lays the groundwork for defining substantive FAPE for your child. The IEP is a personalized plan designed to meet the unique educational needs and...

To better understand the criteria for substantive FAPE, let's take a closer look at the specific components involved:

1. Individualized Education Program (IEP)

The development and implementation of an IEP is the first step in substantive FAPE. The IEP is a legally binding document that outlines...

There are many specialized services that may be available for your child through the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA). Here's an overview of the most common services:

Early Intervention Services (Birth to Age 3)

If your child is under 3 years old and has developmental delays or...

FAPE should be seen as an umbrella term, with many compartments. In previous posts, I explained the components - specialized instruction, related supports and related services. Secondly, I explained procedural FAPE, or the processes and procedures that make FAPE possible. In this and a few future...

As a special education advocate, I understand how important it is to ensure your child's IEP is truly individualized to meet their unique needs. Here are 129 tips to help make that happen:

1. Share detailed information about your child

You know your child best. Provide specific examples of your...

Foundation 4: Promote Transparency

As school districts explore using artificial intelligence (AI) to personalize instruction, streamline processes, and enhance support for students with disabilities, parents should be asking questions about transparency: How do different AI models work? How has...

In this section, I will explore the concept of procedural FAPE as specified in the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) of 2004. Procedural FAPE refers to the process and procedural safeguards put in place to make sure children with disabilities receive appropriate educational...

Foundation 3: Ensure Safety, Ethics, and Effectiveness

As school districts explore incorporating artificial intelligence (AI) into teaching, learning, and special education processes, several foundational safeguards must be in place. Schools districts need to address data privacy, ethical AI...

Your child's needs and goals are determined for their Individualized Education Program (IEP) through a combination of evaluation and IEP Team discussion. This is an important part of the special education process that helps determine the right support for your child..

Evaluating Your Child's...

Foundation 2: Advance Equity

As artificial intelligence (AI) capabilities become more advanced, schools and school districts are facing a turning point. The decisions made now about how to incorporate AI into teaching and learning could either help shrink systemic inequities or intensify them....