Parents of children with special needs should be their child’s first line of defense. To be your child’s biggest advocate, you must know how to protect their interests. Doing that can be particularly challenging in systems with specific regulations and guidelines,...
Special Education Law
danielleaugustin
How to prepare for the first IEP meeting
If your child was identified as needing special education services, the term Individualized Education Program (IEP) likely came up. This legal document outlines the specialized instruction and support your child will receive at school. Part of the process is an IEP...
Post-hearing strategies: What to do if the decision does not go your way?
Every child deserves to learn in a way that suits their unique needs. For parents of children who who require special education services, it is frustrating when a school denies your child needed supports. Filing a due process complaint is a significant step toward...
Advocating for your child: 4 steps when IEPs are ignored
An individualized education plan (IEP) caters to your child’s specific educational needs. There are many times your child may need additional learning support. For example, if they have autism. An IEP better ensures that child receives the emotional, academic and...
What is a functional behavior assessment?
A functional behavior assessment (FBA) helps an IEP team understand why a child behaves in a certain way. It looks at the reasons behind behaviors (i.e., the function), especially challenging ones, to find ways to address them. This approach proves valuable in...
What is an IEP team, and who can be part of it?
Among countless students going through the education system, some may have unique needs that require a different approach. Fortunately, federal and state laws have provisions allowing educators and parents to develop appropriate ways to address these needs through an...
Special Education Law Basics
No child in California or elsewhere makes it through 12 years of school without any challenges. However, some students can thrive more than others. If you have school-aged children in your household, each of them has the right to a free and appropriate public...
Special education law regarding IEP for transfer students
Any parent or guardian of a child with special education needs who attends a California public school understands the many challenges students and their families often encounter in an academic setting. Thankfully, students with special needs can thrive when their...
What is a FAPE?
Parents of children with special needs understandably have unique concerns about their child’s educational options in California. According to federal law, every child is entitled to a free appropriate public education, called FAPE. Understanding the requirements FAPE...
Accommodations provided for special education students
If your child has specific types of learning needs, they may be eligible for support through special education programs. This provides your child with the opportunity to secure support and assistance they may need in order to have a full educational experience. One of...