In Special Education, the IEP (Individualized Education Program) meetings are pivotal gatherings that shape a student’s educational path. As both an advocate and parent, I’ve witnessed the complexity and importance of these meetings in my family and the lives of families I’ve worked with. Picture a conference room with educators,…

TN Pulse IEP, Section by Section: Present Levels of Academic Achievement and Functional Performance (PLAAFP) The Present Levels of Academic Achievement and Functional Performance (PLAAFP), sometimes referred to as “present levels,” is a vital component to your child’s Individualized Education Program (IEP). The first PLAAFP for your child is a…

TN Pulse IEP, Section by Section: Current Information and Consideration of Special Factors for IEP Development In the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), there are 5 important factors that must be considered and addressed annually within the framework of the Individualized Education Program (IEP). These factors are: Limited English…

“If my child is experiencing difficulties in a public school setting, but not currently using medication, can the school insist that the child must take ADHD medication to continue attending?“ Section 300.174(a) of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) states “The SEA [State Education Agency] must prohibit State and…

Functional skills are essential abilities that students need to become self-reliance and live independently. These skills encompass a wise spectrum, ranging from basic to intricate, but all share a common purpose: preparing your child for life beyond their school years. When including functional skills into an Individualized Education Program (IEP),…

In the state of Tennessee, students who complete their education at a public high school can choose from four distinct types of diplomas. These alternatives include a standard high school diploma, an alternate academic diploma, an occupational diploma, and a diploma tailored for special education students. Each diploma type necessitates…

When should I invite my child to attend their IEP meetings? The Individuals with Disabilities in Education Act (IDEA) states that students should participate in their IEP meetings “whenever appropriate,” but does not specify an age due to the diverse needs and readiness levels off students.  However, IDEA does mandates…

Every child deserves the opportunity to reach their full potential in school. For children with disabilities, this often requires tailored support and specialized education. To ensure that no child falls through the cracks, federal law mandates a comprehensive initiative known as Child Find. This program plays a proactive crucial role…

The start of a new school year can be both exciting and daunting for students with Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) and their caregivers. Transitioning back to school may require additional considerations and preparation to ensure a smooth return. To help students with IEPs have a successful academic year, we have…

The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act specifies 13 disability categories that quality a child for special education and related services. These categories include: Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)  Children with ASD often face challenges in communication, social interactions, and repetitive behaviors. In an educational setting, these challenges may manifest as difficulty…