Woodsmall Law Group Articles
Sixth Circuit Court Rules in Favor of Dyslexic Student’s Right to Effective Reading Instruction
Understanding Education and Dyslexia By Rebecca O’Malley, Esq. Dyslexia impacts between 5-10% of the U.S. population. School districts are thus required to provide an appropriate education to students with this relatively common learning disorder. However, the particular type of instruction required to help many dyslexic students learn how to read…
Maximizing Recovery for Medically Fragile and Special Needs Individuals Following the Recent LA Wildfires: Loss of Use, Pain and Suffering, and Structural Fire Loss
Understanding the Full Scope of Recovery The recent Eaton Fire event and its aftermath present unique and significant challenges, particularly for medically fragile individuals and those with special needs. Unlike typical fire loss claims, the impact on this population extends beyond structural damage and personal property loss.
Informational Article: Private School Affidavit Placements in the Wake of Southern California Fires
Southern California has recently endured devastating fires that have destroyed several school sites and displaced countless families. As a result, these natural disasters have also left parents scrambling to find stable educational settings for their children, particularly those with disabilities who require consistent support. For some families, the option of…
Can You Get an IEP for a Student with Anxiety in Southern California?
Navigating the world of educational support for children with anxiety can feel overwhelming. However, Southern California allows the use of an IEP or a 504 plan to provide services for a child whose anxiety interferes with the learning process.
Tips for Writing Effective IEP Goals
Understanding the nuances and implications of an Individualized Education Program (IEP) can be a daunting task for parents of children with special needs. That’s why you’re encouraged to learn how to craft effective IEP goals. This is a valuable skill for parents and educators to attain and is a key…
Alternative Diploma Pathway for Students With Disabilities in California
The California Education Code (EC) Section 51225.31 offers an alternative diploma pathway for students with disabilities who face unique challenges in meeting the standard graduation requirements. This pathway provides flexibility for students with Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) to achieve a high school diploma through modified coursework or alternative assessments tailored…
Supreme Court’s Chevron Ruling May Affect Special Education
For over 40 years, the Chevron ruling granted federal agencies considerable leeway in interpreting ambiguous statutes, which often benefited the implementation of special education policies. However, the future of special education is entering a transformative era in light of the Supreme Court’s recent decision to overturn the Chevron precedent. This…
Advancing Equity and Access to California’s Self-Determination Program: Senate Bill 1281
California’s Self-Determination Program (SDP) represents a transformative approach to empowering individuals with developmental disabilities, providing them with more control over their services, supports, and, ultimately, their lives. However, despite its promise, equitable access to the SDP has remained an issue, particularly for individuals from marginalized communities. To address these concerns…
Getting Prepared for an End-of-the-Year IEP Meeting
As the school year draws to a close, parents of children with special needs are presented with an important opportunity to review and plan for their child’s educational journey through the year-end Individualized Education Program (IEP) meeting. This is a good opportunity to reflect on the child’s progress, address any…
Understanding the Differences Between IEPs, ISPs, and FAPE Rights: A Critical Examination of Recent Trends in Special Education
Warning: The Risks of Agreeing to an ISP Agreeing to an ISP can potentially eclipse a parent’s right to pursue reimbursement for a unilateral private placement. By accepting an ISP, parents may inadvertently waive their right to assert that the school district failed to provide FAPE. This is because, in…