Woodsmall Law Group Articles
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…
Field Trips and Extracurricular Activities for IEP Students in Los Angeles
Ensuring that field trips and extracurricular activities are inclusive for students with Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) is a fundamental right that fosters equal opportunities and developmental growth. Schools are obligated to provide appropriate accommodations so IEP students can participate fully in these enriching experiences, from field trips to sports teams…
Early Intervention Strategies for At-Risk Children
Early intervention strategies play a critical role in supporting parents of at-risk children in California, offering them the tools and knowledge to address early developmental delays and challenges. Identifying and understanding these early signs can significantly impact a child’s ability to thrive. California’s Early Start (ES) program and other local…
Ensuring Positive Discipline in Schools: Understanding the Impacts of Denying Recess and Physical Punishments for Students. Help Is on the Way – California’s SB291
Parents and teachers often face the challenging task of managing children’s behavior in school. While the primary goal is to create a conducive learning environment, the methods used to achieve this can significantly impact a child’s development. For children with IEPs or 504 plans, the question can be significantly more…
California Law and IEP Rules for Transfer Students
When a California student with an existing IEP transfers to a new school, specific regulations come into play to ensure continuity in special education services. Whether the child is transferring from an out-of-state school, a school from another district, or a school within the same district, the new school must…