Special Education Legal News
On March 22, 2017, the Supreme Court in Endrew v. Douglas County unanimously rejects the “de minimis” standard (read the Decision) for one that “is markedly more demanding than the 'merely more than de minimis' test applied by the 10th Circuit." In his opinion, Chief Justice Roberts says “a student offered an educational program providing ‘merely more than de minimis’ progress from year to year can hardly be said to have been offered an education at all." Click here to see Pete's discussion and analysis of the SCOTUS decision.
On February 22, 2017, the Supreme Court issued a unanimous decision for child and parents in Fry v. Napoleon. On October 31, 2016 after Oral Argument, Pete met the Fry family. For our discussion about the case, click here.
PARENT TIPS
For the IEP Team
Here are some tips on ways parents feel as
part of the IEP team
Asking me to share what I feel are my child’s current strengths and challenges.
Asking me what concerns I have or what suggestions I have. When the team shows
appreciation or compliments some things I have done. Basically I like it when the team asks me for some of my input and includes me in the decision making.
When we are listened to, when our ideas are valued, when we brainstorm solutions to challenging issues. Then I feel like I am a part of the team.
When there is open dialogue and all ideas are listened to and discussed, and everyone agrees on a system to use.
Here are some tips from staff for parents to help them be a part of the IEP team.
Provide as much information that can be prepared ahead of time so that the school team can be prepared with brainstorm ideas. This lends to open discussion which makes a nice IEP.
Write down and submit questions ahead of time so team members can be prepared with answers and resources.
Show mutual respect.
Show teaming and sharing