Woodsmall Law Group, PC. Articles
Why Do Schools Push Back Against IEP Plans? Insights for LA Parents
When your child has a disability and needs special education services, an Individualized Education Program (IEP) can be the gateway to meaningful academic support. But many parents in Los Angeles and the San Gabriel Valley are surprised when school districts push back against developing, revising, or fully implementing IEP plans.
Questions Every LA Parent Should Ask During an IEP Meeting
For many parents in Los Angeles and the San Gabriel Valley, attending an Individualized Education Program (IEP) meeting can feel overwhelming. You’re seated across from teachers, administrators, and specialists—all using educational jargon and technical language to discuss your child’s future.
Does Dyscalculia Qualify for an IEP?
Parents and caregivers often notice the signs first: a child who excels in reading and writing but struggles intensely with math. When those difficulties go beyond typical academic challenges and begin to interfere with school progress, families may wonder if there’s a deeper issue, like dyscalculia, and whether their child…
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…