RSSWoodsmall Law Group Articles
State and Federal Agencies Provide Updated Guidance for Special Education Programming and Advocacy During COVID-19
Guidance from the state and federal departments of education have made clear since the inception of the COVID-19 pandemic that students with disabilities are still entitled to a free and appropriate public education (“FAPE”). Here, we will review updated guidance and recent legislation that directs the implementation of IEPs during…
Changes to Regional Center Services During COVID-19 Closures
As a result of the COVID-19 closures, the California Department of Developmental Services (“DDS”) has modified or waived certain provisions under Lanterman Developmental Disabilities Services Act and Title 17, Division 2 of the California Code of Regulations to allow consumers more flexibility to receive needed services and supports.
Regional Center Supports During COVID-19 School Closures
As uncertainty continues regarding the spread of the COVID-19 pandemic, we wanted to take a few moments to remind you of some helpful supports available from your regional center. The law governing the regional centers – the Lanterman Act, provides robust protections for eligible children and adults. This article provides…
Preparing Children With Special Needs for the Return to School After COVID-19
The return to school often comes with some challenges, from early morning wake times to planning for the resources needed in the classroom. The start of the school year takes a toll on both students and parents alike. So how will return Post COVID-19 look different? And what can parents…
Federal Guidance and Advocacy During COVID-19
With the 2020-2021 school year upon us, and most local school districts beginning the year in a distance learning format, many families may be wondering about their options in advocating for their child with special needs. Federal guidance from the U.S. Department of Education in recent months provides a roadmap…
Educational Assessments in the Age of COVID-19
Under state and federal law, school districts have a firm schedule for conducting special education assessments and holding subsequent IEP meetings. The state’s school closures, however, have presented challenges for districts in conducting certain aspects of their assessments.
Federal Court Requires School Districts to Provide In-Person Services for Students With IEPs
This has been a challenging year for the parents of children who require intensive, hands-on services such as occupational therapy, physical therapy, speech therapy, or ABA therapy in order to access their education. Even if the parents have worked collaboratively with their school district to create an IEP that will…
Is Your Child with Special Needs Struggling with Online Learning?
This First Article in a series takes on the issue of regression in learning during the prolonged Stay at Home orders. You have options.
Woodsmall Law Group Presents the Zoom NPS and Private School Fair
Woodsmall Law Group is excited to share the video recording of Zoom NPS and Private School Fair that took place on April 27th. This successful event brought helpful insight to the application processes of the participating schools, the student ratios, the unique programs, and how these schools are adjusting to…
The IEP Process During COVID-19 School Closures
During this unprecedented situation, we at Woodsmall Law Group want to take a moment to discuss the changes related to your child’s Individualized Education Program (IEP).