Thursday, December 15, 2011

Friday, December 9, 2011

Public Invited to Call: Advisory Commission on Childhood Vaccines - AGE OF AUTISM

Public Invited to Call: Advisory Commission on Childhood Vaccines - AGE OF AUTISM

Dr. Lisa Morris on Interviewing for NBC "Skipping Vaccines" - AGE OF AUTISM

Dr. Lisa Morris on Interviewing for NBC "Skipping Vaccines" - AGE OF AUTISM

North Carolina Recreational Therapy Association

North Carolina Recreational Therapy Association

How can recreation be included as a "related service" in my child's IEP? Segments from the Therapeutic Recreation in Public Schools (Project TRIPS) web site: http://perth.uwlax.edu/hper/RM-tr/trschools.htm Are you aware that recreation has been identified as a related service ever since The Education for All Handicapped Children's Act was authorized in 1975? Many parents are not. The basic entitlements of P.L. 94-142 provide for a free, appropriate public education for all children. In providing appropriate educational services to all students with disabilities, the local education agency must ensure that these students receive all related services necessary for the child to benefit from special education. Related services as defined by the law include: speech pathology and audiology, psychological services, physical and occupational therapy, recreation, early identification and assessment of disabilities in children, counseling services, and medical services for diagnostic or evaluation purposes. (Federal Register, 1977, p.42473)

Cooper's Playhouse Can Stay - For Now | LEX18.com | Lexington, Kentucky#!prettyPhoto/0/#!prettyPhoto/0/#!prettyPhoto/0/

Cooper's Playhouse Can Stay - For Now LEX18.com Lexington, Kentucky#!prettyPhoto/0/#!prettyPhoto/0/#!prettyPhoto/0/

Supreme Court Seeks Input On Special Education Case - Disability Scoop

Supreme Court Seeks Input On Special Education Case - Disability Scoop

Group Offers Advice To Parents On Restraint, Seclusion - Disability Scoop

Group Offers Advice To Parents On Restraint, Seclusion - Disability Scoop

Restraint, Seclusion Overlooked In Education Bill - Disability Scoop

Restraint, Seclusion Overlooked In Education Bill - Disability Scoop

Disability A Focus As School Bullying Protections Grow - Disability Scoop

Disability A Focus As School Bullying Protections Grow - Disability Scoop

Tuesday, December 6, 2011

Missouri Wants Out of No Child Left Behind « CBS St. Louis

Missouri Wants Out of No Child Left Behind « CBS St. Louis

Missouri seeks public input for waiver to No Child law | Springfield News-Leader | News-Leader.com

Missouri seeks public input for waiver to No Child law Springfield News-Leader News-Leader.com

Why "No Parents Allowed"? - Parentalrights.org - Protecting Children by Empowering Parents 

Why "No Parents Allowed"? - Parentalrights.org - Protecting Children by Empowering Parents

Adam’s Story Excerpt

Adam’s Story Excerpt

Mommy, I Wish I Could Tell You What They Did To Me In School Today
Everyday Atrocities Faced by Special Needs Children

By Richard S. Stripp, Sr.

IN LOVING MEMORY OF NOAH V. VARCADIPANE8/4/1996 – 11/14/2009 “MOMMY’S SUPERMAN”

The children and adult characters in this book are based on students and individuals that the author has interacted with and/or worked with directly.
The majority of children who “speak” in this book are non-verbal. Their words which you will read are fictitious and were never spoken by them but are based on actual events that occurred in their lives. It is the author’s belief that if the non-verbal children in this book could speak, what you are about to read is what they might have said.
Any conversations between the author and anyone in the book are based on actual events and conversations.
“Never, never be afraid to do what’s right, especially if the well-being of a person or animal is at stake. Society’s punishments are small compared to the wounds we inflict on our soul when we look the other way.” ~ Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.

Stuck in RTI Purgatory

Stuck in RTI Purgatory

Progress Monitoring - Wrightslaw.com

Progress Monitoring - Wrightslaw.com

Specific Learning Disabilities, Discrepancy and Response to Intervention Models & IDEA 2004 by Peter W. D. Wright & Pamela Darr Wright - Wrightslaw

Specific Learning Disabilities, Discrepancy and Response to Intervention Models & IDEA 2004 by Peter W. D. Wright & Pamela Darr Wright - Wrightslaw

Tuesday, November 29, 2011

Capturing the essence of an IEP Meeting with humor - National special education | Examiner.com

Capturing the essence of an IEP Meeting with humor - National special education Examiner.com

Judge slams San Francisco school personnel for delay and stall tactics - National special education | Examiner.com

Judge slams San Francisco school personnel for delay and stall tactics - National special education Examiner.com

The anti child industry devoted to keeping services at minimum - National special education | Examiner.com

The anti child industry devoted to keeping services at minimum - National special education Examiner.com

The anti child industry Part 2 - National special education | Examiner.com

The anti child industry Part 2 - National special education Examiner.com

The anti child industry: Where the big money goes - National special education | Examiner.com

The anti child industry: Where the big money goes - National special education Examiner.com

Does your school have a secret history of abusing disabled children? Find out here - National special education | Examiner.com

Does your school have a secret history of abusing disabled children? Find out here - National special education Examiner.com

Missouri

1. North Mercer R3, Mercer, MO (Seclusion Room: Closet converted to seclusion room)
2. Underwood Elementary School, Lee’s Summit R-7 School District, Lee’s Summit, MO (Seclusion: Child kept in closet for most of a month)

Disability Programs In Limbo Following Supercommittee Collapse - Disability Scoop

Disability Programs In Limbo Following Supercommittee Collapse - Disability Scoop

Monday, November 28, 2011

Sunday, November 27, 2011

States Falling Short in Serving Infants, Toddlers With Disabilities?

States Falling Short in Serving Infants, Toddlers With Disabilities?

Some states fare particularly poorly, Easter Seals found. Alabama, Arkansas, Georgia, the District of Columbia, Mississippi, Missouri, Montana, and Tennessee serve fewer than 2 percent of their population. On the other hand, some states do much better: Massachusetts, New Mexico, New Hampshire, New York, Rhode Island, and Wyoming serve more than 4 percent of their population through Part C.

Saturday, November 19, 2011

Autism Papers--Children with Asperger's Syndrome: Characteristics/Learning Styles and Intervention Strategies pg 1

Autism Papers--Children with Asperger's Syndrome: Characteristics/Learning Styles and Intervention Strategies pg 1

How Can I Understand The Way That My Child With Aspergers Learns? | Aspergers Education Tips

How Can I Understand The Way That My Child With Aspergers Learns? Aspergers Education Tips

UMKC-led consortium gets grant to help disabled - KAIT-Jonesboro, AR-News, weather, sports, classifieds-

UMKC-led consortium gets grant to help disabled - KAIT-Jonesboro, AR-News, weather, sports, classifieds-

Benson says MO education chief driving off KCMSD administrators - KCTV 5

Benson says MO education chief driving off KCMSD administrators - KCTV 5

UCM won't renew contract to sponsor KC charter | The Associated Press | News | Washington Examiner

UCM won't renew contract to sponsor KC charter The Associated Press News Washington Examiner

St. Louis Beacon - Lawmakers hear plight of St. Louis students at education hearing

St. Louis Beacon - Lawmakers hear plight of St. Louis students at education hearing

Tuesday, October 25, 2011

Discrimination Found at Fox C-6 School District | International Coalition for Autism and All Abilities

Discrimination Found at Fox C-6 School District International Coalition for Autism and All Abilities

More Evidence of the Long Term Effects of Bullying « Bullying Stories

More Evidence of the Long Term Effects of Bullying « Bullying Stories

The Long Term Effects of Bullying - Depression Resources, Education About Depression and Unipolar Depression

The Long Term Effects of Bullying - Depression Resources, Education About Depression and Unipolar Depression

Atlanta high schools broke rules to meet performance standards  | ajc.com

Atlanta high schools broke rules to meet performance standards ajc.com

Tuesday, October 11, 2011

I think my Husband has Aspergers...

I think my Husband has Aspergers...

When Hope Seems Lost | International Coalition for Autism and All Abilities#more-1332#more-1332#more-1332

When Hope Seems Lost International Coalition for Autism and All Abilities#more-1332#more-1332#more-1332

4-year-old says teacher's aide spanked her with shoe - CBS 5 - KPHO

4-year-old says teacher's aide spanked her with shoe - CBS 5 - KPHO

In Memory of Fred Fay (September 12, 1944 - August 20, 2011)- Wrightslaw

In Memory of Fred Fay (September 12, 1944 - August 20, 2011)- Wrightslaw

Bedford family alleges abuse of autistic child in $20 million lawsuit - WTKR

Bedford family alleges abuse of autistic child in $20 million lawsuit - WTKR

Thursday, September 29, 2011

An expensive fight over a boy with autism  | ajc.com

An expensive fight over a boy with autism ajc.com

5 Reasons Why Autism Moms Rock! | Psychology Today

5 Reasons Why Autism Moms Rock! Psychology Today

National Autism Association - Autism Safety Initiative - Our mission is providing resources, education, advocacy, awareness and support - Restraint & Seclusion - 10 Restraint & Seclusion Tips for Parents

National Autism Association - Autism Safety Initiative - Our mission is providing resources, education, advocacy, awareness and support - Restraint & Seclusion - 10 Restraint & Seclusion Tips for Parents

National Autism Association (NAA) Says Vinegar-Soaked Cotton Balls in Disabled Students' Mouths Underscores Need for 'Aversives' Ban - PR Newswire - sacbee.com

National Autism Association (NAA) Says Vinegar-Soaked Cotton Balls in Disabled Students' Mouths Underscores Need for 'Aversives' Ban - PR Newswire - sacbee.com

Sunday, September 11, 2011

OASIS @ MAAP - Understanding the Student With Asperger's Syndrome: Guidelines for Teachers

OASIS @ MAAP - Understanding the Student With Asperger's Syndrome: Guidelines for Teachers

Recommendations For Students with High Functioning Autism by Kerry Hogan — TEACCH - UNC School of Medicine

Recommendations For Students with High Functioning Autism by Kerry Hogan — TEACCH - UNC School of Medicine

Strategies for Surviving Middle School with an Included Child with Autism by Ann Palmer — TEACCH - UNC School of Medicine

Strategies for Surviving Middle School with an Included Child with Autism by Ann Palmer — TEACCH - UNC School of Medicine

OASIS @ MAAP - Tips for Teaching High-Functioning People with Autism

OASIS @ MAAP - Tips for Teaching High-Functioning People with Autism

AUTCOM - Autcom's Red Flags And Rules of Thumb for Evaluating Treatments

AUTCOM - Autcom's Red Flags And Rules of Thumb for Evaluating Treatments

Families Against Restraint and Seclusion

Families Against Restraint and Seclusion

What do I do if the school won’t offer me an IEP evaluation? | Children’s Education Alliance of Missouri

What do I do if the school won’t offer me an IEP evaluation? Children’s Education Alliance of Missouri

Law Will Create Special Needs Scholarship Tax Credit Program in Missouri | Children’s Education Alliance of Missouri

Law Will Create Special Needs Scholarship Tax Credit Program in Missouri Children’s Education Alliance of Missouri

Stop ignoring key provision in Missouri education law - KansasCity.com

Stop ignoring key provision in Missouri education law - KansasCity.com

Monday, August 29, 2011

Family of Special Needs Boy Claims Republic Teacher Assaulted Him - kspr.com

Family of Special Needs Boy Claims Republic Teacher Assaulted Him - kspr.com

Republic School District is the worst in Missouri; school accused of making middle school rape victim apologize to attacker | Plog#readerComments

Republic School District is the worst in Missouri; school accused of making middle school rape victim apologize to attacker Plog#readerComments

Special Needs Student Sues Missouri School District Over Rapes - ABC News

Special Needs Student Sues Missouri School District Over Rapes - ABC News

Thanks to ABC Nightline for covering this story.

Washington Supreme Court returns favorable opinion in Dowler v. Clover Park School District |  Copaa

Washington Supreme Court returns favorable opinion in Dowler v. Clover Park School District Copaa

7.30 - ABC

7.30 - ABC Hidden shame
The teachers using physical force to manage autistic children.

Exclusive: Parents say abuse cover-up extends to state agency - CBS Atlanta News, Weather, Sports, Traffic - WGCL 46

Exclusive: Parents say abuse cover-up extends to state agency - CBS Atlanta News, Weather, Sports, Traffic - WGCL 46

Family Of Dead Student Plans To Sue School - News Story - WSB Atlanta

Family Of Dead Student Plans To Sue School - News Story - WSB Atlanta

Parent of student sprayed with Lysol demands answers - CBS Atlanta News, Weather, Sports, Traffic - WGCL 46

Parent of student sprayed with Lysol demands answers - CBS Atlanta News, Weather, Sports, Traffic - WGCL 46

Tuesday, August 2, 2011

Autism Insurance Settlements Ill-Conceived, Advocates Say - Disability Scoop

Autism Insurance Settlements Ill-Conceived, Advocates Say - Disability Scoop

'Wandering' Diagnosis Gets Green Light - Disability Scoop

'Wandering' Diagnosis Gets Green Light - Disability Scoop

Lawmakers Push For Full Funding Of IDEA - Disability Scoop

Lawmakers Push For Full Funding Of IDEA - Disability Scoop

Disability Legislation On Hold As Congress Nears Recess - Disability Scoop

Disability Legislation On Hold As Congress Nears Recess - Disability Scoop

For Executives at Group Homes, Generous Pay and Little Oversight - NYTimes.com

For Executives at Group Homes, Generous Pay and Little Oversight - NYTimes.com

Autism foundation's IRS filings raise eyebrows | StarTribune.com

Autism foundation's IRS filings raise eyebrows StarTribune.com

Plan To Regulate Subminimum Wage Sparks Debate - Disability Scoop

Plan To Regulate Subminimum Wage Sparks Debate - Disability Scoop

McDonald's Manager Accused Of Punching Customer - News Story - WSB Atlanta

McDonald's Manager Accused Of Punching Customer - News Story - WSB Atlanta

Debt Crisis May Spell Trouble For Disability Benefits - Disability Scoop

Debt Crisis May Spell Trouble For Disability Benefits - Disability Scoop

Licensing Of Behavior Analysts Called Into Question - Disability Scoop

Licensing Of Behavior Analysts Called Into Question - Disability Scoop

State to regulate Rotenberg Center's shock treatment - Quincy, MA - The Patriot Ledger

State to regulate Rotenberg Center's shock treatment - Quincy, MA - The Patriot Ledger

Respite Care To Get Boost From Feds - Disability Scoop

Respite Care To Get Boost From Feds - Disability Scoop

Study: Bullying More Common Among Students With Disabilities - Disability Scoop

Study: Bullying More Common Among Students With Disabilities - Disability Scoop

'Pink room' for students exhibiting violent behavior at Palmer's Old Mill Pond School closes after anonymous complaint | masslive.com

'Pink room' for students exhibiting violent behavior at Palmer's Old Mill Pond School closes after anonymous complaint masslive.com

Wednesday, July 13, 2011

Eight-Year-Old Girl HANGS Herself ‘After Being Bullied Right Up to the Day of Her Death’

Eight-Year-Old Girl HANGS Herself ‘After Being Bullied Right Up to the Day of Her Death’

Prison Officer ‘Tied Naked Children to a Desk, Beat Them with a Paddle, then Sent Videos to Online Boyfriend

Prison Officer ‘Tied Naked Children to a Desk, Beat Them with a Paddle, then Sent Videos to Online Boyfriend

A-Hole of the Day – Contracted Bus Drives Bound And Blindfolded Special Needs Children

A-Hole of the Day – Contracted Bus Drives Bound And Blindfolded Special Needs Children

Education Week: More States Defiant on NCLB Compliance

Education Week: More States Defiant on NCLB Compliance

Education Week: Political Foes Unite on Accountability, Aim to Sidestep NCLB

Education Week: Political Foes Unite on Accountability, Aim to Sidestep NCLB

Education Week: 2009 Report Identified Dozens of Pa. Schools for Possible Cheating

Education Week: 2009 Report Identified Dozens of Pa. Schools for Possible Cheating

Education Week: Partisan Fights, Budget Cuts Complicate School Funding

Education Week: Partisan Fights, Budget Cuts Complicate School Funding

Thursday, April 14, 2011

AUTCOM - Can aversives and restraints produce PTSD in people with autism?

AUTCOM - Can aversives and restraints produce PTSD in people with autism?

AUTCOM - Today's Criteria for Inclusion of Students with Autism/PDD in Their Natural Communities

AUTCOM - Today's Criteria for Inclusion of Students with Autism/PDD in Their Natural Communities

AUTCOM - Articles

AUTCOM - Articles

AUTCOM - Alternatives to Behaviorism

AUTCOM - Alternatives to Behaviorism

AUTCOM - Memorandum: On the Exclusive Use of Discrete Trial Training for Children Diagnosed as Autistic/PDD

AUTCOM - Memorandum: On the Exclusive Use of Discrete Trial Training for Children Diagnosed as Autistic/PDD

AUTCOM - DSM

AUTCOM - DSM

The Cost of Waiting | TASH

The Cost of Waiting TASH

The Cost of Waiting | TASH

The Cost of Waiting TASH

Wednesday, April 6, 2011

Emily Malabey for Fox C-6 | Campaign for School Board Fox C-6

Emily Malabey for Fox C-6 Campaign for School Board Fox C-6

More With Disabilities Jobless In March - Disability Scoop

More With Disabilities Jobless In March - Disability Scoop

Amid Abuse Concerns, New Group Home Safeguards Unveiled - Disability Scoop

Amid Abuse Concerns, New Group Home Safeguards Unveiled - Disability Scoop

Better Data Sought On Autism And Wandering - Disability Scoop

Better Data Sought On Autism And Wandering - Disability Scoop

Major Metros Top Best Places To Live With Autism - Disability Scoop

Major Metros Top Best Places To Live With Autism - Disability Scoop

Not Everyone On Board With Autism 'Awareness' - Disability Scoop

Not Everyone On Board With Autism 'Awareness' - Disability Scoop

Wednesday, March 23, 2011

Asperger Syndrome and Giftedness - Duke Gifted Letter

Asperger Syndrome and Giftedness - Duke Gifted Letter

School Compared To 'Mental Institution' Under Investigation - Disability Scoop

School Compared To 'Mental Institution' Under Investigation - Disability Scoop

Duncan Calls For End To Inflated Special Education Test Scores - Disability Scoop

Duncan Calls For End To Inflated Special Education Test Scores - Disability Scoop

Legislator Who Suggested Siberia For 'Retarded' Resigns - Disability Scoop

Legislator Who Suggested Siberia For 'Retarded' Resigns - Disability Scoop

After Two Decades, Change Coming To ADA - Disability Scoop

After Two Decades, Change Coming To ADA - Disability Scoop

N.J. to propose $10K annual stipend for families taking care of developmentally disabled adults | NJ.com

N.J. to propose $10K annual stipend for families taking care of developmentally disabled adults NJ.com

Genius at work: 12-year-old is studying at IUPUI | The Indianapolis Star | indystar.com

Genius at work: 12-year-old is studying at IUPUI The Indianapolis Star indystar.com

Congress To Consider Parent Financial Burden In IDEA Cases - Disability Scoop

Congress To Consider Parent Financial Burden In IDEA Cases - Disability Scoop

Friday, March 11, 2011

Education Week: Obama: Idea of Bullying as Rite of Passage Must Change

Education Week: Obama: Idea of Bullying as Rite of Passage Must Change

WATCH IT: School Bus Video Shows Girl Jerked To Floor By Driver - Video - KIRO Seattle

WATCH IT: School Bus Video Shows Girl Jerked To Floor By Driver - Video - KIRO Seattle

http://www.edweek.org/ew/articles/2011/03/09/23kirp.h30.html?tkn=WOZFEvAi8CH3uEHbC+67wM4vmxSEhacJ+8vS&cmp=clp-edweek

http://www.edweek.org/ew/articles/2011/03/09/23kirp.h30.html?tkn=WOZFEvAi8CH3uEHbC+67wM4vmxSEhacJ+8vS&cmp=clp-edweek

Duncan: 82 Percent of Schools Could Be 'Failing' This Year - Politics K-12 - Education Week

Duncan: 82 Percent of Schools Could Be 'Failing' This Year - Politics K-12 - Education Week

Fair and Appropriate, But Not Bully-Free - On Special Education - Education Week

Fair and Appropriate, But Not Bully-Free - On Special Education - Education Week

Monday, March 7, 2011

Developments in Special Education Law: Board of Regents to consider change in statute of limitations

Developments in Special Education Law: Board of Regents to consider change in statute of limitations

Developments in Special Education Law: Denial of a FAPE is Not Required for a Parent to recover fees

Developments in Special Education Law: Denial of a FAPE is Not Required for a Parent to recover fees

How to Identify Students with High-Functioning Autism

How to Identify Students with High-Functioning Autism

http://digitalcommons.pcom.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=1111&context=psychology_dissertations

http://digitalcommons.pcom.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=1111&context=psychology_dissertations

GOOOOAAAALLLL!!!!!! | Essential Educator

GOOOOAAAALLLL!!!!!! Essential Educator

Inclusion strategies for students with autism spectrum disorders - Reaching every learner: Differentiating instruction in theory and practice

Inclusion strategies for students with autism spectrum disorders - Reaching every learner: Differentiating instruction in theory and practice

Saturday, March 5, 2011

After Six Decades, Disability Group Shakes Things Up - Disability Scoop

After Six Decades, Disability Group Shakes Things Up - Disability Scoop

Defining 'Essential' Care - WSJ.com

Defining 'Essential' Care - WSJ.com

New Autism Research Priorities Unveiled In Federal Plan - Disability Scoop

New Autism Research Priorities Unveiled In Federal Plan - Disability Scoop

Debate Over Institutions Flares As Feds Seek Comment - Disability Scoop

Debate Over Institutions Flares As Feds Seek Comment - Disability Scoop

Senate Looks To Tackle 'Shockingly Low' Disability Employment - Disability Scoop

Senate Looks To Tackle 'Shockingly Low' Disability Employment - Disability Scoop

Autism Documentary 'Wretches & Jabberers' Headed To Big Screen - Disability Scoop

Autism Documentary 'Wretches & Jabberers' Headed To Big Screen - Disability Scoop

As Economy Improves, People With Disabilities Left Behind - Disability Scoop

As Economy Improves, People With Disabilities Left Behind - Disability Scoop

Sunday, February 27, 2011

Unseemly IEP Team Members | Connecticut Special Education Lawyer

Unseemly IEP Team Members Connecticut Special Education Lawyer

http://www.connecticutspecialeducationlawyer.com/tips-for-parents/iees-do-you-have-to-explain-why-you-disagree/?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed:+ConnecticutSpecialEducationLawyer+(Connecticut+Special+Education+Lawyer)

http://www.connecticutspecialeducationlawyer.com/tips-for-parents/iees-do-you-have-to-explain-why-you-disagree/?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+ConnecticutSpecialEducationLawyer+%28Connecticut+Special+Education+Lawyer%29

IEE: Do You have to Explain Why You Disagree?

8-year-old arrested: Student's arrest at Orange County school prompts questions, criticism - OrlandoSentinel.com

8-year-old arrested: Student's arrest at Orange County school prompts questions, criticism - OrlandoSentinel.com

Friday, February 25, 2011

Lawsuit against Alief ISD and trustees for suing disabled child

8-year-old Riverside Elementary student arrested – for fifth time

Autism Society - Federal Budget Proposal Includes Funding for Autism Research, IDEA; Proposed Cuts Overall are Severe

Autism Society - Federal Budget Proposal Includes Funding for Autism Research, IDEA; Proposed Cuts Overall are Severe

Autism Society - Federal Government Announces $4.3 Billion in New Funds for Community Alternatives to Institutional Long-Term Care

Autism Society - Federal Government Announces $4.3 Billion in New Funds for Community Alternatives to Institutional Long-Term Care

Autism Society - Share Your Story: Help Families Get Expert Witnesses for IDEA Due Process Hearings

Autism Society - Share Your Story: Help Families Get Expert Witnesses for IDEA Due Process Hearings

Autism Society - Researchers Reveal First Autism Candidate Gene That Demonstrates Sensitivity to Sex Hormones

Autism Society - Researchers Reveal First Autism Candidate Gene That Demonstrates Sensitivity to Sex Hormones

How a child with Asperger's helped his father become a better parent | The Manila Bulletin Newspaper Online

How a child with Asperger's helped his father become a better parent The Manila Bulletin Newspaper Online

Researchers Detect Babies' Potential Risk of Autism - ABC News

Researchers Detect Babies' Potential Risk of Autism - ABC News

Autism Society - Jackie's Story

Autism Society - Jackie's Story

Autism Society - Sensory Friendly Films

Autism Society - Sensory Friendly Films

Autism Society - Autism Society Will Join Autism Community to Call for Autism Understanding and Acceptance this April

Autism Society - Autism Society Will Join Autism Community to Call for Autism Understanding and Acceptance this April

Autism Society - Join the Autism Society at TimesTalks, presented by the New York Times, this March

Autism Society - Join the Autism Society at TimesTalks, presented by the New York Times, this March

Autism Society - Autism Society Presents Public Service Announcement for Spring 2011

Autism Society - Autism Society Presents Public Service Announcement for Spring 2011

Wednesday, February 23, 2011

Supreme Court Issues Pro-Child Decision in Forest Grove School District v. T.A. by Peter Wright, Esq. and Pamela Wright, MA, MSW - Wrightslaw.com

Supreme Court Issues Pro-Child Decision in Forest Grove School District v. T.A. by Peter Wright, Esq. and Pamela Wright, MA, MSW - Wrightslaw.com

Special Education Caselaw - Law Library - Wrightslaw

Special Education Caselaw - Law Library - Wrightslaw

IDEA: Least Restrictive Environment (LRE) and Free Appropriate Public Education (FAPE)

IDEA: Least Restrictive Environment (LRE) and Free Appropriate Public Education (FAPE)

Supreme Court Says No To Parents Suing Vaccine Makers - Disability Scoop

Supreme Court Says No To Parents Suing Vaccine Makers - Disability Scoop

Feds Unleash Billions For Community Living - Disability Scoop

Feds Unleash Billions For Community Living - Disability Scoop

Parent Observations v. Student Privacy and Confidentiality by Pete Wright and Pam Wright - Wrightslaw.com

Parent Observations v. Student Privacy and Confidentiality by Pete Wright and Pam Wright - Wrightslaw.com

Passing Grades, IQ scores, and Evaluations of Students with Learning Disabilities - OSEP Policy Letter to Lillie /Felton - Wrightslaw

Passing Grades, IQ scores, and Evaluations of Students with Learning Disabilities - OSEP Policy Letter to Lillie /Felton - Wrightslaw

Is Child with Passing Grades Eligible for Special Ed Under IDEA?

Is Child with Passing Grades Eligible for Special Ed Under IDEA?

Tax Benefits for Taxpayers with Disabilities and Parents of Children with Disabilities - Wrightslaw

Tax Benefits for Taxpayers with Disabilities and Parents of Children with Disabilities - Wrightslaw

Wednesday, February 16, 2011

10-year-old autistic boy, Brandon Strong, punished for behavior caused by his condition

10-year-old autistic boy, Brandon Strong, punished for behavior caused by his condition

Record Number of Children Enrolled in School Choice Programs This Year | Children's Education Council of Missouri - CECM

Record Number of Children Enrolled in School Choice Programs This Year Children's Education Council of Missouri - CECM

Special Needs Scholarship Tax Credit Bill Returns | Children's Education Council of Missouri - CECM

Special Needs Scholarship Tax Credit Bill Returns Children's Education Council of Missouri - CECM

Report Reveals Silent Epidemic of Bullying Against Children With Special Needs -- SAN FRANCISCO, Feb. 15, 2011 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ --

Report Reveals Silent Epidemic of Bullying Against Children With Special Needs -- SAN FRANCISCO, Feb. 15, 2011 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ --

Bill Filed to Expand Charter Schools Statewide, Increase Accountability | Children's Education Council of Missouri - CECM

Bill Filed to Expand Charter Schools Statewide, Increase Accountability Children's Education Council of Missouri - CECM

Feds Put Virginia On Notice Over Disability Violations - Disability Scoop

Feds Put Virginia On Notice Over Disability Violations - Disability Scoop

Obama Budget Brings Mixed Bag For People With Disabilities - Disability Scoop

Obama Budget Brings Mixed Bag For People With Disabilities - Disability Scoop

Judge: Special Needs Community 'Disproportionately Vulnerable' In Emergencies - Disability Scoop

Judge: Special Needs Community 'Disproportionately Vulnerable' In Emergencies - Disability Scoop

Waiting Lists, Fragmented Services Among Developmental Disability Barriers - Disability Scoop

Waiting Lists, Fragmented Services Among Developmental Disability Barriers - Disability Scoop

The Vaccine-Autism Hoax: Why Didn’t We Know Sooner?

Sunday, February 13, 2011

Support Youth with Significant Disabilities Get Equal Opportunities to Become Productive, Responsible, Contributing Citizens of Society in Adulthood

Support Youth with Significant Disabilities Get Equal Opportunities to Become Productive, Responsible, Contributing Citizens of Society in Adulthood


Cosponsor the Transitioning towards Excellence & Achievement in Mobility through Education

(TEAM-Education) Act of 2011

POLICY OVERVIEW

Despite significant public expenditures in special education, students with intellectual and developmental disabilities frequently transition out of high school lacking the proper skills required to find and maintain employment or pursue post-secondary education. This trend is due to a reluctance among state and local educational authorities in providing hands-on work experience and training (including mentoring, internships, summer work programs, and career development) that is typically offered to non-disabled students during their transitional years. Instead, low expectations dominate individualized education plans (IEPs) for students with special needs despite the potential and desire of many students to pursue opportunities that will help them gain experience to better prepare them for the workforce and adulthood. Although the Individuals with Disabilities in Education Act (IDEA) requires schools to provide transition services to support students with disabilities during their high school years, there currently lacks no enforcement, monitoring or evaluation of school districts to ensure that they are complying with this important provision in the law.

It is no surprise then that upon exiting the school system, these young citizens are woefully unprepared and unsupported in finding and maintaining employment in the community and at wages which promote optimal self-sufficiency and independence. Yet research demonstrates that when provided with preparatory, hands-on job experience in the form of part-time work, internships, or summer employment, individuals with significant disabilities can successfully obtain and sustain work in integrated settings and earn competitive wages.

PURPOSE OF LEGISLATION

The TEAM legislation provides three separate legislative responses to better align existing federal programs providing publically-funded systems and supports to focus on one uniform goal – ensuring that every youth with a significant disability has the opportunity, encouragement and support to become gainfully employed in an integrated setting, pursue a post-secondary education, and contribute to and meaningfully engage in typical community settings upon leaving high school.

TEAM-EDUCATION ACT OF 2011: BILL SUMMARY

The TEAM-Education Act amends IDEA to encourage and empower schools districts, states educational authorities, students with significant disabilities, their familiesand transition teams to plan for and achieve employment in an integrated setting at minimum wage or higher after high school.

 Adds requirements to ensure Individualized Education Plans (IEPs) holistically address the transition needs of students: Under this bill, the IEP changes the age when transition planning must be included in a student’s IEP from age 14 to 16, and requires school districts to invite the State Intellectual/Developmental Disability (I/DD) Authority to participate on the IEP & transition planning team for students expected to be eligible for adult I/DD services. The bill further requires the IEP to include comprehensive transition planning and services, including objectives for developing the skills, knowledge-base, training and experience to successfully obtain integrated employment, economic self-sufficiency, independent living and community involvement. The bill would require schools to produce a comprehensive portfolio of the student’s skills, experiences and talents relevant to employers, tobe given to the student and parents once the student exits the school system. Additionally, the bill offers

TEAM-Education Act of 2011 Page 2

advocacy training for students and families to help them prepare better for articulating the wishes of the student during the IEP process.

 Allows for IDEA Part B discretionary dollars to be used by school districts to hire or contract with professionals possessing transition expertise for youth with significant disabilities: The legislation clarifies that school districts are allowed and encouraged to use IDEA discretionary funds for either hiring transition experts within or contracting out transition services as needed, based on stringent criteria that these contracts be focused on the preparation and confirmation of integrated, competitive employment or other desired post-secondary education outcomes.

 Modifies the Definition of Transition Services: Ensures that the definition of transition services includes customized employment services and training in advocacy and self-determination activities to better prepare youth for job preparation and advocating on their own behalf. Additionally, the bill clarifies that transition services do not include facility-based or other segregated programs.

 Establishes Support for Local Transition Coordinators: Provides $50 million to Local Educational Agencies (LEAs) to pilot the hiring of internal transition services coordinators who would be responsible for facilitating relationships with public and private entities on behalf of the student and the student’s family to ensure the successful provision of desired transition services necessary to achieving the student’s transition objectives.

POLICY RATIONALE

The goal of publically-funded transition services and supports for youth with disabilities should be focused on helping youth with significant disabilities acquire the skills, knowledge and experience required to successfully obtain a job in an integrated setting at minimum wage or higher, ensure maximum community participation and achieve optimal self-sufficiency. To achieve this goal, Congress must establish a coordinated, comprehensive approach to the investment of public resources that expands and improves the choices of youth with significant disabilities who are transitioning into adulthood to ensure the design and execution of an individualized , coordinated strategy aimed at securing meaningful post-secondary educational opportunities, career development and training, supported employment in an integrated setting, and inclusion in the community setting through independent living and social engagement.

The TEAM-Education Act would streamline the transition process at the high-school level and require coordination and collaboration between the state education authority and the State I/DD authority to maximize the efficient use of resources through systems alignment. Clarifying that facility based or other segregated experiences are not acceptable transition services will focus IEP teams on having high expectations of all students and in identifying opportunities that lead to integrated employment, post secondary education, independent living and optimal self-sufficiency for students with significant disabilities. The legislation ensures that the newest and most promising practices for assisting students in finding, creating and maintaining employment are implemented, rather than promoting a continued dismissal of the potential of students with disabilities to become productive citizens and contribute in meaningful ways to their communities.

ACTION REQUIRED

Congressional leaders dedicated to improving the future opportunities of youth with significant disabilities through fiscally responsible, innovative systems-reform strategies are encouraged to co-sponsor all three of the following legislative proposals: TEAM-Education Act of 2011; Team-Empowerment Act of 2011; and TEAM-Employment Act of 2011. To cosponsor one or more of these innovative legislative bills, please contact Scot Malvaney in the Office of U.S. Representative Gregg Harper (R-MS) at scot.malvaney@mail.house.gov or 202-225-5031.

Education Week: Ex-D.C. School Chief Rhee Defends Teacher Firings, Despite Ruling

Education Week: Ex-D.C. School Chief Rhee Defends Teacher Firings, Despite Ruling

Dems ask governor for special-ed funds | State Government | Wichita Eagle

Dems ask governor for special-ed funds State Government Wichita Eagle

Friday, February 11, 2011

Special Education Law Blog: Special Needs as a Second Language by Lori Miller Fox

Special Education Law Blog: Special Needs as a Second Language by Lori Miller Fox

Special Education Law Blog: Steps towards Making a Strategic Plan for Your Next IEP

Special Education Law Blog: Steps towards Making a Strategic Plan for Your Next IEP

Special Education Law Blog: Guidelines for Effective Educational Testing Part 1

Special Education Law Blog: Guidelines for Effective Educational Testing Part 1

Special Education Law Blog: Guidelines for Effective Educational Testing Part 2

Special Education Law Blog: Guidelines for Effective Educational Testing Part 2

Special Education Law Blog: Words of Wisdom for (and at) IEP Meetings

Special Education Law Blog: Words of Wisdom for (and at) IEP Meetings

Special Education Law Blog: Comprehensive Accomodations Manual is a Good Reference for Your Next IEP and for High Stakes Testing

Special Education Law Blog: Comprehensive Accomodations Manual is a Good Reference for Your Next IEP and for High Stakes Testing

Special Education Law Blog: Count Your Blessings? by Lori Miller Fox

Special Education Law Blog: Count Your Blessings? by Lori Miller Fox

Special Education Law Blog: Emergency Evacuation Should be Part of the IEP

Special Education Law Blog: Emergency Evacuation Should be Part of the IEP

Special Education Law Blog: School District's Gathering Information on Parents

Special Education Law Blog: School District's Gathering Information on Parents

Special Education Law Blog: Illegal Holds, Restraint and Seclusion by Nicole T. Jorwic

Special Education Law Blog: Illegal Holds, Restraint and Seclusion by Nicole T. Jorwic

Wednesday, February 9, 2011

CDC Wants to Know What You Think About Autism Research - AGE OF AUTISM

CDC Wants to Know What You Think About Autism Research - AGE OF AUTISM

Bill Gates on CNN: They Kill Children (Vaccine Safety Advocates) - AGE OF AUTISM

Bill Gates on CNN: They Kill Children (Vaccine Safety Advocates) - AGE OF AUTISM

Dr. Halvorsen on Wakefield, Witch Hunts and Vaccine Safety - AGE OF AUTISM

Dr. Halvorsen on Wakefield, Witch Hunts and Vaccine Safety - AGE OF AUTISM

California Reports Tripling of Autism K-12 - AGE OF AUTISM

California Reports Tripling of Autism K-12 - AGE OF AUTISM

Missouri House of Representatives

Missouri House of Representatives

HB362 Bryce's Law Autism Scholarship Bill

Bloomberg Takes Aim at Special Ed Costs - WNYC

Bloomberg Takes Aim at Special Ed Costs - WNYC

Inclusive Child Care Offers New Option For Kids With Disabilities - Disability Scoop

Inclusive Child Care Offers New Option For Kids With Disabilities - Disability Scoop

Young Adults With Autism Forgoing Assistance After High School - Disability Scoop

Young Adults With Autism Forgoing Assistance After High School - Disability Scoop

What's Next For Special Education - Disability Scoop

What's Next For Special Education - Disability Scoop

Tuesday, February 8, 2011

Education Week: Are Superintendents Necessary? One Colo. District Says No

Education Week: Are Superintendents Necessary? One Colo. District Says No

Education Week: Ohio Gov. Creates Education-Czar Post

Education Week: Ohio Gov. Creates Education-Czar Post

Two Govs, Very Different Political Stripes, Call for K-12 Cuts - State EdWatch - Education Week

Two Govs, Very Different Political Stripes, Call for K-12 Cuts - State EdWatch - Education Week

Education Week: Study Disputes Myth of School Bullies' Social Status

Education Week: Study Disputes Myth of School Bullies' Social Status

Wrightslaw - Topics - Discipline: Suspensions, Expulsions and IEPs by Robert Crabtree, Esq.

Wrightslaw - Topics - Discipline: Suspensions, Expulsions and IEPs by Robert Crabtree, Esq.

What Are the School's Obligations to a Child with Severe Emotional & Behavior Problems? by Pete Wright - Wrightslaw.com

What Are the School's Obligations to a Child with Severe Emotional & Behavior Problems? by Pete Wright - Wrightslaw.com

What You Need to Know About IDEA 2004: IEPs for Children with Behavior Problems by Pat Howey, paralegal and advocate

What You Need to Know About IDEA 2004: IEPs for Children with Behavior Problems by Pat Howey, paralegal and advocate

Brooklyn mom's battle to educate her learning-disabled son continues six years after it began

Brooklyn mom's battle to educate her learning-disabled son continues six years after it began

Former Williamstown High School student sues district, Monroe Township over alleged discrimination - NJ.com

Former Williamstown High School student sues district, Monroe Township over alleged discrimination - NJ.com

The Autism News

The Autism News School Is Not Working For Him

Thursday, February 3, 2011

Chantal Sicile-Kira: Open Letter to Governor Jerry Brown: On Budget Cuts and the Lanterman Act

Chantal Sicile-Kira: Open Letter to Governor Jerry Brown: On Budget Cuts and the Lanterman Act

Autism Parent Tips On Applying For Social Security Benefits

Autism Parent Tips On Applying For Social Security Benefits

New Vaccine Approaches Clinical Trial Phase: NoThinx Sure to be Blockbuster! - AGE OF AUTISM

New Vaccine Approaches Clinical Trial Phase: NoThinx Sure to be Blockbuster! - AGE OF AUTISM

Is That Paul Offit with a Casserole? - AGE OF AUTISM

Is That Paul Offit with a Casserole? - AGE OF AUTISM

Molecular Psychiatry Medscape: Mitochondrial Dysfunction Linked to Autism - AGE OF AUTISM

Molecular Psychiatry Medscape: Mitochondrial Dysfunction Linked to Autism - AGE OF AUTISM

Offit Cashes In: Closing the Books on the Vaccine Profits of a Merck-Made Millionaire - AGE OF AUTISM

Offit Cashes In: Closing the Books on the Vaccine Profits of a Merck-Made Millionaire - AGE OF AUTISM

Katie Wright Reports on the IACC Meeting: Common Sense & Compassion in Short Supply - AGE OF AUTISM

Katie Wright Reports on the IACC Meeting: Common Sense & Compassion in Short Supply - AGE OF AUTISM

Wednesday, February 2, 2011

Proposed Revision | APA DSM-5

Proposed Revision APA DSM-5

50 Great Blogs & Links for Autism Teachers // Current

50 Great Blogs & Links for Autism Teachers // Current

Teacher Abuse by Principals-The Dark ... - Oprah.com

Teacher Abuse by Principals-The Dark ... - Oprah.com

UPDATE: Fired deputy had prior reprimand | HeraldTribune.com

UPDATE: Fired deputy had prior reprimand HeraldTribune.com

Causes

Causes

Beautiful autism pendants.

Documents emerge proving Dr Andrew Wakefield innocent; BMJ and Brian Deer caught misrepresenting the facts

Documents emerge proving Dr Andrew Wakefield innocent; BMJ and Brian Deer caught misrepresenting the facts

Out-of-Pocket Spending by Low-Income Families Raising a Child with a Disability - Disability Scoop

Out-of-Pocket Spending by Low-Income Families Raising a Child with a Disability - Disability Scoop

Corporal Punishment More Likely For Students With Disabilities - Disability Scoop

Corporal Punishment More Likely For Students With Disabilities - Disability Scoop

How is Jeff Grisamore addressing this and all of the other injustices that our children face in the education setting?

People With Disabilities Confined Involuntarily For Decades, Suit Alleges - Disability Scoop

People With Disabilities Confined Involuntarily For Decades, Suit Alleges - Disability Scoop

In Nation's Largest District, 1 In 3 Suspensions Handed To Kids In Special Education - Disability Scoop

In Nation's Largest District, 1 In 3 Suspensions Handed To Kids In Special Education - Disability Scoop

Animal Assisted Therapy - Equine Therapy - Equine Assisted Psychotherapy

Animal Assisted Therapy - Equine Therapy - Equine Assisted Psychotherapy

What to Do When Schools Have Children Arrested for School-Related Behavior Problems by Pete Wright, Esq. - Wrightslaw

What to Do When Schools Have Children Arrested for School-Related Behavior Problems by Pete Wright, Esq. - Wrightslaw

Wrightslaw - Functional Behavioral Assessments: What? Why? How? Who? by Stephen Starin, Ph.D.

Wrightslaw - Functional Behavioral Assessments: What? Why? How? Who? by Stephen Starin, Ph.D.

Behavior Management and Appropriate School Response: FBAs, BIPs, & IEEs - Wrightslaw.com

Behavior Management and Appropriate School Response: FBAs, BIPs, & IEEs - Wrightslaw.com

Tuesday, February 1, 2011

Moral Reasoning A Struggle For Those With Autism, Study Finds - Disability Scoop

Moral Reasoning A Struggle For Those With Autism, Study Finds - Disability Scoop

Court Upholds Involuntary Commitments For People With Disabilities - Disability Scoop

Court Upholds Involuntary Commitments For People With Disabilities - Disability Scoop

Learning Disabilities Group Releases State Scorecards - On Special Education - Education Week

Learning Disabilities Group Releases State Scorecards - On Special Education - Education Week

Learning Disabilities Group Releases State Scorecards - On Special Education - Education Week

Learning Disabilities Group Releases State Scorecards - On Special Education - Education Week

Long-Running Special Education Lawsuit in Pa. Gets Trial Date - On Special Education - Education Week

Long-Running Special Education Lawsuit in Pa. Gets Trial Date - On Special Education - Education Week

Special Education Court Decisions on the Rise - On Special Education - Education Week

Special Education Court Decisions on the Rise - On Special Education - Education Week

Governor's Rocky Transition To Private Life Prompts Special Ed. Debate - On Special Education - Education Week

Governor's Rocky Transition To Private Life Prompts Special Ed. Debate - On Special Education - Education Week

RTI Can't Delay Special Education Evaluations, Feds Say - On Special Education - Education Week

RTI Can't Delay Special Education Evaluations, Feds Say - On Special Education - Education Week

Education Week: Duncan Urges Atlanta School Board to Get Its Act Together

Education Week: Duncan Urges Atlanta School Board to Get Its Act Together

Police: Teacher Abused 6-Year-Old Boy - Jacksonville News Story - WJXT Jacksonville

Police: Teacher Abused 6-Year-Old Boy - Jacksonville News Story - WJXT Jacksonville

Wednesday, January 26, 2011

Chilling impact on vaccine-autism research | Northeastern University News

Chilling impact on vaccine-autism research Northeastern University News

Learning From a Previous Vaccine-Autism Case? - Primary Source - CBS News

Learning From a Previous Vaccine-Autism Case? - Primary Source - CBS News

Family to Receive $1.5M+ in First-Ever Vaccine-Autism Court Award - CBS News Investigates - CBS News

Family to Receive $1.5M+ in First-Ever Vaccine-Autism Court Award - CBS News Investigates - CBS News

Vaccines, Autism and Brain Damage: What's in a Name? - CBS News Investigates - CBS News

Vaccines, Autism and Brain Damage: What's in a Name? - CBS News Investigates - CBS News

The Search for Safer Vaccines - CBS News Investigates - CBS News

The Search for Safer Vaccines - CBS News Investigates - CBS News

In Plain Sight: Freud, Face-Blindness, and Autism - AGE OF AUTISM

In Plain Sight: Freud, Face-Blindness, and Autism - AGE OF AUTISM

Governors Eye Greater Control Over Education - San Antonio Express-News

Governors Eye Greater Control Over Education - San Antonio Express-News

New program starting to help people with disabilities get home safe - NBCActionNews.com - Kansas City

New program starting to help people with disabilities get home safe - NBCActionNews.com - Kansas City

Tuesday, January 25, 2011

Sheltered Workshops No Better Than Institutions, Report Finds - Disability Scoop

Sheltered Workshops No Better Than Institutions, Report Finds - Disability Scoop

Excessive Overtime At State Institutions Raises Concerns - Disability Scoop

Excessive Overtime At State Institutions Raises Concerns - Disability Scoop

As Idaho cuts budgets, autistic adults must choose between therapies

As Idaho cuts budgets, autistic adults must choose between therapies

Former Morgan Stanley Broker Guilty Of Special Needs Fraud - Disability Scoop

Former Morgan Stanley Broker Guilty Of Special Needs Fraud - Disability Scoop

seMissourian.com: Local News: Some area school districts receive sanctions and awards (12/15/08)

seMissourian.com: Local News: Some area school districts receive sanctions and awards (12/15/08)

Meet Emily Malabey, Fox School Board Candidate - Arnold, MO Patch

Meet Emily Malabey, Fox School Board Candidate - Arnold, MO Patch

Wednesday, January 19, 2011

Special Ed Justice

“Why Would We Do an Evaluation, She Already Gets Services?”

As a parents’ special education attorney in Connecticut, I hear outrageous statements that parents are told by their school districts on an almost daily basis. But, sometimes, I am told something that passes the realm of outrageous, and crosses into ridiculous.








Such statements mislead or misrepresent the school’s legal obligations, and always in a way that benefits the school district.

After hearing so many of them, I decided to add a separate category to my blog just for this purpose, where I will post these ridiculous comments and explain why it likely violates IDEA. Hopefully, if you’ve heard similar things from your district, next time around you will know better!



Today’s Ridiculous Comment

Recently I attended an IEP meeting on behalf of a client who has been diagnosed with an autism spectrum disorder. The district had asked its Occupational Therapist (“OT”) to do an evaluation. When the OT reported her findings, the parents were disappointed, because it was quite clear to them (and me) that the evaluation was neither thorough nor accurate. My response was to ask for an IEE.

Ask for the Email

Whenever parents retain my firm, I ask them to sign a form requesting all of their child’s education records be sent to me as their special education lawyer. It’s a standard “FERPA” request…the easiest way to explain FERPA is that it is sort of like the educational version of HIPAA. Bottom line is that I can not legally access a child’s special education records without the parents’ permission.




Over the years in my special education law practice in Connecticut, I have modified my FERPA request to account for situations I’ve encountered in litigation. So, a few years ago, I added the words “including ALL EMAILS” to my FERPA request.

35 Years of IDEA: A Dream Deferred?

A few days ago marked 35 years since the federal special education statute, now known as IDEA, was signed into law. It is hard to believe that within my lifetime, and probably yours, it was legally permissible to exclude children with disabilities from our public schools entirely.




Think about that for a minute.

A little over a generation ago, students with disabilities had no legal entitlement to an education at all, let alone a Free and Appropriate Public Education (“FAPE”), as we have come to know special education designed to meet a child’s unique needs.



We have come a long way since then. And yet, we still have so far to go.

DON’T THROW AWAY ANYTHING!!!

Sometimes it’s difficult to know what to to be happy about as an attorney who represents children with disabilities.




As you can imagine, the facts that support a “really great special education case” are, by definition, at best unpleasant, and at worst horrific.

It’s an odd feeling, reviewing a child’s special education records. When I find procedural violations (sadly, this occurs more often than not), I get a little excited. Why? Because I know that these violations of IDEA have probably led to the very deprivation of appropriate special education programming which has brought the parents to my office. It gives me the ability to verify my client’s claims. More importantly, I know that clear violations of the IDEA will give me the leverage I need to convince the school district’s attorney that my client requires more, better, or different services.

Phoebe Prince, Bullying, Disabilities, and the Eggshell Skull | Special Ed Justice | Connecticut Special Education Lawyer

Phoebe Prince, Bullying, Disabilities, and the Eggshell Skull Special Ed Justice Connecticut Special Education Lawyer

Oklahoma School Districts May Accept Special Education Vouchers - On Special Education - Education Week

Oklahoma School Districts May Accept Special Education Vouchers - On Special Education - Education Week