RSSWoodsmall Law Group Articles
Parents Have the Right to Challenge Special Ed Placement
All public schools in California are required by federal and state law to provide specially designed instruction to meet the unique needs of children with disabilities. Every child has the right to receive Fair and Appropriate Public Education (FAPE) at no cost to the family. Parents must be consulted by…
Protecting Special Education Students from Bullying
Bullying in schools continues to be a problem. The unwelcome aggressive actions associated with bullying are known to affect the emotional health of the victim. Children attending special education classes may be the target of this behavior, leaving deep emotional scars.
What Accommodations Are Available for Children Who Have Difficulties With PPE?
As schools are re-opening, many are requiring all staff and students to wear personal protective equipment (PPE), or facemasks, to prevent the spread of COVID-19. These procedures are supported by CDC and WHO guidelines, and research has shown that proper mask etiquette and social distancing can prevent outbreaks. However, some…
Understanding the Special Education Rights of Twice-Exceptional Students: Woodsmall Law Group Secures a Watershed Decision
Twice-exceptional students often face difficulties receiving proper accommodations, supports, and services from school districts. Teachers and administrators may downplay the limitations a student may face by focusing on their high test scores and classroom participation and overlooking any disabilities they may be dealing with. However, school districts have a duty…
Making the Decision to Return to In-Person School: A Parent’s Decision-Making Tool Kit
As public schools begin to reopen in California with in-person classes, there many questions that parents have about safety guidelines and accommodations being made for their disabled children. The changes brought by the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020 and the sudden shift to remote learning left many parents confused and students…
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…