I’ve been in several IEP team meetings lately where the team refuses to consider the need for a paraeducator. It general follows that that teachers are quiet and administrators are participating in the conversation around paraeducators, making the decision for the team. This worries me, as...
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...
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 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....
As artificial intelligence (AI) capabilities rapidly advance, there is increasing discussion around how it could be used in special education classrooms. Policies are being developed to guide how AI tools meet the needs of parents, students with disabilities, and educators. The first foundation...
The integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) is transforming the way Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) are developed and implemented. Parent advocates need to critically monitor your child’s educational program to ascertain whether or not the IEP is more tailored and responsive to...
While you know your child best, the school provides the professionally trained partners to design and deliver instruction and services. The IEP team must include:
| General Education Teacher | They know what works and doesn’t in the general education classroom, as well as grade level... |
As a parent, nothing means more than seeing your child thrive and achieve their full potential. When disabilities create roadblocks, you'll move mountains to clear their path forward. But you don't have to advocate alone.
Under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), your...
When a disability impacts your child's life, narrow academic goals just aren't enough. The true power of the IEP lies in its whole-child approach - an individualized educational plan for your unique child.
Of course, areas like reading, writing, and math are included, supporting your...
Developing an IEP is a team effort. And you, the parent, are the irreplaceable expert on your child's team.
No one understands your child's strengths, struggles, behaviors and needs across environments like you do. No one has been the constant advocate, cheerleader and champion like you...
