What School Lawyers Want You To Know: Special Education Series
101 Goals
This presentation is designed specifically for special education teachers to provide a clear, actionable overview of how to craft and manage IEP goals that are legally defensible. This session will delve into the most common compliance pitfalls that school lawyers frequently address, giving educators the tools and knowledge they need to stay ahead of potential legal challenges.
101 BIPs
This presentation is designed for special education teachers to provide a foundational understanding of Behavior Intervention Plans (BIPs). It will cover a legal analysis of behavior intervention plans and also the role of conducting a Functional Behavior Assessment (FBA) to identify the underlying causes of behaviors.
101 Discipline
This presentation is designed for special education teachers to understand the overview of student discipline options in the context of special education students. It will explore the legal options available, the process for an educational change of placement in comparison to a disciplinary change of placement, and the role of the IEP team when addressing student behavior.
101 PLAAFP
This presentation is specifically tailored for special education teachers, offering an in-depth look at crafting meaningful Present Levels of Academic Achievement and Functional Performance (PLAAFP) sections within the IEP which ultimately will be used to draft IEP goals. This session will not only emphasize the importance of PLAAFPs but also explore the legal background and requirements that guide the creation of this critical IEP section.
201 BIPs
This follow-up presentation is designed for special education teachers who want to dive deeper into the specifics of Behavior Intervention Plans (BIPs). Building on the foundational knowledge from the first session, this presentation will explore the key components of a BIP, how BIPs align with providing a Free Appropriate Public Education (FAPE), and common writing conundrums teachers face when developing effective plans. Educators will gain practical insights into addressing challenges in documenting BIPs, ensuring legal compliance, and creating interventions that are both meaningful and effective for students.
201 Discipline
This follow-up presentation is designed for special education teachers who want to deepen their understanding of special education discipline, specifically focusing on Manifestation Determination and its role in disciplinary actions. Building on the previous session, this presentation will explore the process of conducting a Manifestation Determination Review to determine whether a student’s behavior is a result of their disability. Additionally, it will cover the importance of a district’s prior knowledge of a student’s suspected disability and how this impacts disciplinary decisions and compliance with IDEA.
201 Goals
This follow-up presentation is designed for special education teachers who want to refine their skills in drafting effective IEP goals. Building on the first session, this presentation will focus on the critical aspects of writing specific and measurable IEP goals that are tailored to meet the unique needs of each student.
201 PLAAFP
This follow-up presentation is designed for special education teachers to deepen their understanding of Present Levels of Academic Achievement and Functional Performance (PLAAFP) within the IEP. It will focus on the crucial role of baseline data in accurately reflecting a student’s current performance and needs, while also highlighting how the PLAAFP connects to the development of measurable goals and appropriate services. Educators will learn how to craft PLAAFP sections that are data-driven and connect to IEP goals.
Accommodations
This presentation is designed for special education teachers to help them effectively draft IEP accommodations that are clear and pass the "stranger test." The session will focus on creating accommodations that specify duration, location, and frequency to ensure they may be effectively implemented. Teachers will learn how to avoid vague wording in accommodations, promoting clarity and shared understanding among all IEP team members.
Least Restrictive Environment
This presentation is designed for special education teachers to provide a comprehensive understanding of Least Restrictive Environment (LRE) determinations. Focusing on the legal requirements, LRE basics, and key factors to consider when deciding a student’s LRE, the session will also highlight the role of parent input in the process. As one of the most contentious areas during IEP meetings, educators will gain valuable insights into navigating LRE discussions, ensuring decisions are made in compliance with the law and centered on the student’s individual needs.
Parental Participation
This presentation is designed for special education teachers to enhance their understanding of parent participation in the IEP process. It will focus on the definition of "parent" under IDEA, the issue of predetermination compared to preparation, and strategies for addressing scheduling conflicts to ensure meaningful parent involvement.
Providing and Documenting IEP Services
This presentation is designed for special education teachers to provide essential guidance on the effective implementation of IEPs. It will focus on the importance of documenting IEP implementation. Teachers will learn best practices for maintaining compliance.
Revising the IEP
This presentation is designed for special education teachers to provide an understanding of when IEP reviews should occur, including the mechanics of the review process and when to initiate revisions based on specific concerns such as behavior, chronic absenteeism, or bullying. This presentation will dispel the notion that IEPs should only be reviewed and revised annually.
Transition Goals
This presentation is designed for special education teachers to provide a comprehensive understanding of transition goals within the IEP process. It will focus on the importance of transition planning, best practices for developing meaningful transition goals, and exploring real-life case examples to guide goal development.