If you have a child with a disability in the public school system, you are familiar with the language of special education, IEPs, and 504 Plans. If it’s new to you, stick around for today’s conversation because I’m joined by two trusted experts in the thick of the IEP world. We begin with Dr. Lesley Cook, a clinical psychologist and repeat guest on the show, as she explains what parents need to know to be prepared and informed ahead of IEP meetings. My second guest is Kim Kizito, a fierce advocate who meets with families and consults with them as they navigate the public school system to get educational services for their children with various disabilities. Join us to learn more!

Show Highlights:

From Dr. Lesley:

● Dr. Lesley’s path to becoming a trusted expert witness in due process cases dealing with neuropsych assessments

● Understanding IEPs–individual education programs for students who have a diagnosis that interferes with their education

● The difference between bad goals and good goals in an IEP

● Dr. Lesley’s advice to watch out for the word “comply” in an IEP goal

● Turning bad goals into better goals that are affirming and realistic

● Considerations around behavioral disorders, PTSD, and triggering environments

● 3 kinds of interventions and supports that should be included in IEPs

● A look at the intense pressure that parents feel in the IEP process–and why the law regards them as equal members in the process

● Examples of common accommodations that parents can ask for

● The problem with color charts as a behavior management tool

● Dr. Lesley’s tips for parents and guardians who want to be more informed and prepared for IEP meetings

From Kim:

● Most parents don’t realize what services are available for children ages 0-3 through ECI (Early Childhood Intervention)

● The importance of a special education advocate in helping families

● Understanding the difference between a 504 Plan and an IEP

● The three-pronged process for a child to qualify for an IEP

● Lightning round questions for Kim about the excuses schools give to parents

● Kim’s strategy to “get through” to the school to get evaluations and services for a child

● Top tips for parents in protecting their child’s educational rights

● A manifestation determination hearing—when it is appropriate and what it means

Resources and Links:

Connect with Dr. Lesley Cook: TikTok

Mentioned by Dr. Lesley: www.understood.org

Connect with Kim Kizito: Website, Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok

Connect with KC: Website, TikTok, Instagram, and Facebook

Get KC’s book, How to Keep House While Drowning

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