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 th...
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 d...
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 ch...
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 po...
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 the...
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 Curren...
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 services...
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 develo...
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. The ...
Have you heard of Idaho Ed News? I created a Google News Alert for special education news, as I am finding myself drawn more and more to working for systemic change in special education advocacy. This has been on my mind, as I have been helping families write written state complaints (WSCs) lately. ...
Questions should never end! Advocates know that it is our job to understand so that we can better advocate... and we also know that the school and school district have a responsibility to provide understandable information so that parents can participate meaningfully. Artificial intelligence in spec...
As a parent or caregiver of a child with a disability, you should understand the importance of FAPE and advocate for your childā€™s right to an education that meets their needs. By collaborating with educators and the school district, your child has a greater chance of receiving the specialized instru...
