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Special Education/Questions Answered by Expert Michelle R. Davis, M. Ed.

Subject	Date Asked
withdrawing consent	2/10/2012
Q: Tim, Last year, at my son's annual ARD meeting, my wife and I intended to disagree with the ... A: The OT and you have disagreements on your child's level of skill and functioning, areas of need, ...
Educational vs. Clinical testing	2/8/2012
Q: My Ex-spouse and I recently had our daughter tested by a Psychologist (PhD Ed) for learning ... A: Your question is about privately-obtained evaluations (independent evaluation) vs. public ...
2e child	2/5/2012
Q: Michelle, I wrote to you awhile back regarding a services plan for my 8-year-old son, who is ... A: Michelle, Your follow up says that it was the district who evaluated your son's skills and said ...
Aspie son transition to H.S.	2/4/2012
Q: so josh is visiting KK hs next week. Soon to be 9th grader. Suggestions on questions to ask, how to ... A: What a treat to get a question on this site about a child I know well. Wow, he is making a ...
2e child	2/4/2012
Q: Michelle, I wrote to you awhile back regarding a services plan for my 8-year-old son, who is ... A: Michelle and thanks for coming back to this site and specifically to me for this question about your ...
What can I do?	2/3/2012
Q: My 12 year old daughter has been diagnosed with adhd and odd. She is in 7th grade and has struggled ... A: and thank you for writing. Your child is struggling with serious attention, social, emotional and ...
Alternative Schools for Child with Behavioral Issues	1/13/2012
Q: I am thinking of moving to a new city in a new state, but I haven't heard anything good about the ... A: I am going to try my best to give you a general answer and point you in the right direction. At the ...
504/IEP and Catholic School	1/7/2012
Q: My son was recently diagnosed with ADD. He was given a 504 order from his Development Pediatrician, ... A: and describing your situation in detail. Many parents are struggling with this issue: ...
How to find an adequate school when coming from overseas	12/1/2011
Q: Me and my family are moving to Washington from Spain. We have three kids and one of them, a 5 years ... A: Cecilia, Moving overseas can be easier with the help of an expert like the consultants at ABCs for ...
504 Plan	11/1/2011
Q: My understanding is that a 504 Plan should be renewed yearly with a new diagnosis. A student at our ... A: You appear to be an educator and I really like when educators write in for questions; thanks for ...
Individual Service Plan	10/25/2011
Q: One of my children is homeschooled. I have a meeting scheduled with the district to address services ... A: Great to get a question about a services plan; thank you! Here is a nice resource, a slideshow ...
Clarifying Disability	9/28/2011
Q: My son was diagnosed with ADHA-Inattentive Type in the middle of his junior year. He was evaluated ... A: I hope it will help me give you a comprehensive response to help you advocate for your son. I ...
add. echo pen, recording the class	9/24/2011
Q: my 8th grade Catholic school daughter has ADD and uses an ECHO PEN which tapes the lecture for later ... A: You are most welcome! If you alread haven't , kindly give feedback on the site. If you would like to ...
add. echo pen, recording the class	9/23/2011
Q: my 8th grade Catholic school daughter has ADD and uses an ECHO PEN which tapes the lecture for later ... A: whose Catholic School teachers are refusing to implement an accommodation that was provided last ...
Speech Therapy goals for IEP	8/26/2011
Q: How can I write the speech therapy goals so that I as a parent can attend my daughter's speech ... A: You want to know how you can attend/observe your child's SLP sessions to assure that interventions ...
Speech only kids their imp goals and accommodatiins	8/26/2011
Q: I am a speech language pathologist working in the public school setting in San Antonio, TX. I came ... A: I thank you for writing! I get this question a lot. I am going to re-frame your question. If I ...
twice-exceptional child	7/12/2011
Q: Michelle, I have an 8-year-old son who is very highly gifted and also has Asperger's. Through their ... A: who is highly gifted and also diagnosed with Asperger's Syndrome/Disorder. While all states are ...
one to one para	6/27/2011
Q: I found out recently that my severely autistic non verbal 16 year old had been lost at school. He ... A: Sarah, Thank you for writing! Your question is going to help other parents since it is: what do I ...
ADHD and failed IEP	6/8/2011
Q: My son has just failed 7th grade for the second time. He has ADHD, primarily inattentive type. After ... A: You would like to know if the school district A could be required to provide transportation for your ...
Placement for next year	5/31/2011
Q: My son is 5 years old with a dx of PDD-NOS, he's currently nonverbal for the most part. He is ... A: Tonya, Thanks so much for writing a great question. So many parents at this time of year are in the ...
proving educational impact for articulation only	5/21/2011
Q: My son was evaluated for speech/language and OT in his school at my request. He is 8 years old as ... A: Your question is about a parent showing the multidisciplinary team how a child's educational ...
Is a general diagnosis of Dyspraxia covered under IDEA?	5/18/2011
Q: My 7 year old son is under the Special Ed umbrella in a public school in University Park, Texas. He ... A: Meredith, Thanks for writing to me about your 7 year old son, who is already eligible for special ...
Frustrated with Math	5/15/2011
Q: Ms. Davis, I hope my question will be a quick one for you, and that I’m asking the right ... A: Frustrated, and thanks for writing. I believe I may have answered your question March 2010 (Math ...
Apraxia ESY services	5/8/2011
Q: my son has Apraxia and has been in speech since 2 years old privately he will be 4 in June. He ... A: The state of Texas is under monitoring because of a persistent problem with the determination of ESY ...
ESY decision without an ARD meeting	5/4/2011
Q: Michelle, Hello. I live in Texas. I have a son with autism who attends public school. I am going to ... A: it makes it easier for me to give you an on target answer, which I hope to do. First, PLEASE never ...
IEP Reevaluation	5/4/2011
Q: My son is dyslexic. There is no doubt that he is but I don't have a medical diagnosis. He has had an ... A: I think its great that you are anticipating and planning for what to do if the IEP team dismisses ...
Gifted/ADHD child with possible OT issues	4/28/2011
Q: My son is 7 years-old and in 3rd grade for most of the day, accelerated to 4th grade in math. He has ... A: eligibility determination, and related services. The scenario you describe is very common so I ...
school changes IEPs without telling parents	4/26/2011
Q: (Please do not publicly post my email. I will lose my job.) I teach special ed and one of my ... A: I not only wish you luck, I wish that more students could have a special educator who will do the ...
school changes IEPs without telling parents	4/26/2011
Q: (Please do not publicly post my email. I will lose my job.) I teach special ed and one of my ... A: I was in the school system too, for 10 years. So I know that this unfortunate and illegal situation ...
504 vs IEP. please help	4/22/2011
Q: My son is in 1st grade. He has a diagnosis of Bi-Polar, ADHD, Intermittent Explosive Disorder. He ... A: I feel you may have a pretty serious concern whether the school is providing your son with a free ...
LRE in PA preschool?	4/21/2011
Q: Davis, My daughter is 4 years old. She has mild hypotonia and extreme joint laxity (due to ... A: Your 5 questions about preschool placement for a child moving from one state to another really ...
504 vs IEP. please help	4/20/2011
Q: My son is in 1st grade. He has a diagnosis of Bi-Polar, ADHD, Intermittent Explosive Disorder. He ... A: and thanks for writing about your first grader with emotional and behavioral concerns. Will you ...
Preschool program qualification	4/10/2011
Q: My 4 year old son received EI services for PT and OT when he was 1-2 yrs old and then was ... A: I am very sorry for my delay in responding to your follow up question. Once your son becomes ...
Preschool program qualification	4/10/2011
Q: My 4 year old son received EI services for PT and OT when he was 1-2 yrs old and then was ... A: A mother's instinct is usually correct, and in this case, I think you are right to question your ...
reading instruction	4/6/2011
Q: My 9-year-old son is in 3rd grade. He has a diagnosis of autism. He has made significant progress in ... A: and who is struggling with reading. I will answer your last question first. In order to select ...
Request student educational records	4/3/2011
Q: I'd like to request a copy of my child's educational records but I'm concerned about the cost. For ... A: Your question about your child's records is such a great one and brings up some important issues ...
Therapeutic Day Schools	4/2/2011
Q: I have an 11 year old that has a prenatal stroke. She has been diagnosed with Generalized anxiety ... A: It sounds like your daughter has been fully and completely evaluated and you believe she needs a ...
Dyspraxia/Gifted IEP help	3/21/2011
Q: I have an 8 year old child who has had an IEP for both speech/OT since he was 3 years old. Gifted ... A: There are several issues here--services plan vs. IEP, how to address a service provider who wants to ...
seeking nps reimbursement	3/18/2011
Q: daughter with aspergers 5th grade. Withdrawn with 190 day notice. I felt that she was being ... A: Susan, Thanks very much for writing to me about the unilateral placement of your daughter, at ...
Info disclosed in an IEP meeting	3/7/2011
Q: I recently had an IEP meeting to continue services under speech for my 8 year old son. During our ... A: Jen, You shared in the IEP meeting that your son was bullied due to his disability and you did not ...
FM unit	3/2/2011
Q: My 9-year-old son is in a 4th grade CTT class and is struggling in reading. He is diagnosed with ... A: IEP. Specifically, you want to know how to obtain the FM device and have the school system ...
advice?	2/24/2011
Q: I am looking for some advice. Let me explain the situation first. My son was tested in Pre-K and had ... A: Your question is about how to assist your first grader in reading, attention, following directions, ...
Segregation and Full Integration:	2/23/2011
Q: 1- I want to know if I got the definitions right. Segregation: means separating the individuals with ... A: segregation, and integration. You described segregation correctly in your question as it relates to ...
complaint	2/17/2011
Q: My daughter was in public school but I took her out because I didn't think she was getting FAPE and ... A: You are asking a great question about FAPE, requesting a due process hearing/filing a complaint, and ...
Speech Only IEPs and Gifted Services	2/14/2011
Q: I have twins who are in 6th grade in Pennsylvania. They have been classified as Gifted as well as ... A: Ronna, and thanks for writing! Your question is about what services a child (or children!) qualify ...
reading problems	2/11/2011
Q: Michelle, My son has a diagnosis of autism. His annual ARD meeting is coming up soon and I want to ... A: and implement a proper reading program for your son with Autism. You are right, the first step is a ...
resource during recess	2/4/2011
Q: My 3rd grade daughter has recently been diagnosed with a learning disability. She also has ADHD. ... A: What a great discussion, since it will bring up some foundational issues. First of all, all ...
employment	1/28/2011
Q: I am a recetly retired special education teacher with 35 years experience. I am looking at ... A: So you'd like to get into the business of advocacy...how important! Thanks for a great question. I ...
Removal from IDEA to Section 504 Plan	1/26/2011
Q: I have a 12 year old son who is in 6th grade. He is an incredibly well behaved child. He has NEVER ... A: Kim, Thanks for a great question about eligibility under the Individuals with Disabilities ...
Reevaluation for IEP	1/21/2011
Q: My son's IEP is up for reevaluation. He has an IEP for speech. We had a meeting to discuss the ... A: There is so much information I want to give you, but so little space. I encourage you to pair this ...
proportionate share	1/8/2011
Q: This is actually a follow-up to a question that I wrote a couple of weeks ago. We withdrew our son ... A: The way you have described the situation, I cannot be sure you have postured yourself in the right ...
Spelling	1/7/2011
Q: My son is now 14 and in 9th grade. He can only spell things phonetically. I have had him tested for ... A: You seem to be telling me that you believe your son has an educational disability that requires ...
homeschooling	12/27/2010
Q: Michelle, We have made the decision to withdraw our very highly gifted, autistic (Asperger's), ... A: If you were going to remove your son to a private school setting as a result of your concerns for ...
homeschooling	12/26/2010
Q: Michelle, We have made the decision to withdraw our very highly gifted, autistic (Asperger's), ... A: To answer it, I would like to introduce two concepts: unilateral placement and services plan. What ...
Speech/Language IEP	12/13/2010
Q: I am writing to ask about a Speech/language certification. If a child is certified as having a ... A: The answer is in short, yes. I would like to explain my answer by distinguishing a couple of things ...
private school placement	12/4/2010
Q: Under what conditions would a public school district be required to reimburse a parent or pay for a ... A: but I will do my best here and invite you to follow up. I am going to answer your question in 2 ...
reading assessment	11/29/2010
Q: Michelle, Is there a list of reading assessments and reading programs approved by NCLB? I am trying ... A: Emme, The ABLLS-R is not going to be adequate to assess your son's reading skills, by itself as the ...
SST and IEP	11/23/2010
Q: My child is in kindergarten and has been receiving speech and language services since he was in ... A: This is one of my favorite topics, whether a child is eligible for special education services and/or ...
evaluation	11/19/2010
Q: My wife and I recently requested that the district use the Sensory Processing Measure to assess our ... A: First let me apologize if there was a delay in my response! I hope you will forgive me. Thanks ...
age limit in ECDD program	11/16/2010
Q: In a special education preschool program where the rule reads ages 2 1/2 thru 5. If a student is 5 ... A: Your question appears to be whether a child who is 5 entering the school year can continue in the ...
selective mutism	11/13/2010
Q: The reason why I had requested the speech and language eval and the psychoeducation because my ... A: I think you will want to consider getting private testing done, whether you ask the school system to ...
dyslexia	11/11/2010
Q: I have a daughter that is 8 and in second grade in Honolulu. She displays many symptoms of dyslexia ... A: You suspect that your child has an educational disability under the Individuals with Disabilities ...
selective mutism	11/10/2010
Q: The reason why I had requested the speech and language eval and the psychoeducation because my ... A: Melanie, If the teacher and the psychiatrist have both recommended evaluations, it is imperative ...
diciplinary action and pddnos	11/2/2010
Q: My son was recently suspended for saying something crude to two girls on the bus and he admitted to ... A: What an imporant discipline and school placement question. The first thing I want to be sure you ...
selective mutism	10/29/2010
Q: My daughter is 5 and is in kindergarden. She has Selective Mutism and has been seeing a ... A: It sounds like the school does not suspect that your daughter has an educational disability, and you ...
Integration and Segregation	10/21/2010
Q: I want some merits and demerits of integration and segregation.What is the main difference between ... A: http://www.kidstogether.org/inclusion/benefitsofinclusion.htm ...
Sensory Processing Disprder on an IEP	10/9/2010
Q: My son is 4;6. He has a Speech Only IEP right now, and an SLP from our county's IU sees him at his ... A: Your question about your 4 year old is how to get services into the Individualized Education Program ...
Integration and Segregation	10/6/2010
Q: I want some merits and demerits of integration and segregation.What is the main difference between ... A: and thanks for writing! Please forgive my delayed response. I received a notification from the ...
autism questions	10/5/2010
Q: I have a 7-year-old boy with Asperger's who is in a DSSC classroom. (It's for children with ... A: Your question about missing services for your son with Asperger's is a very important one. First I ...
Release out of special ed	10/4/2010
Q: Davis, I live in New York. My daughter hasn't been diagnosed with a recognizable learning ... A: You are asking a question about revoking consent for special education, a very important question. ...
1-1 para's laws	9/13/2010
Q: I am a 1-1 para for a cognitive impairment student. Per IEP I am with her for 4 hours a day. It ... A: This is such an important question and you have courage for asking it. You are a paraprofessional ...
My daughter Anna	9/8/2010
Q: My name is Shannon. I am writing to try and find some answers as to way after 4 yrs the school ... A: Each law has eligibility requirements that are different. Your daughter has a diagnosis of ADHD ...
Quick Help Pls - IEP Mtg in 3 hours!	9/8/2010
Q: Sec. 300.302 states " The screening of a student by a teacher or specialist to determine ... A: I likely did not meet your time deadline and hope you will not penalize me on the ratings for that. ...
IEP Minutes	9/7/2010
Q: Could a student who receives, for example, 450 minutes per week of instruction with his special ed. ... A: As a backgdrop for my answer, I would like to frame your child's right to a free appropriate public ...
obtain a special education child	9/2/2010
Q: Is it possible to obtain a child back if she is physically and mentally not ready for middle school. ... A: You are asking about holding a child back, or having the child repeat the last grade in elementary ...
Special ed qualifications in the U.S.	8/24/2010
Q: Sorry Michelle. I didn't phrase my last question very well. Although I live in Canada I was actually ... A: and clarifying you are interested in information for teachers of students with Autism. This varies ...
Aspergers/special education	8/23/2010
Q: I recently googled Aspergers and when it would be legally defined under special ed services. my son ... A: Dianna, You are not alone! Many families are in this same situation. First, I want to be sure you ...
Parental Consent for 504 - divorce	8/18/2010
Q: I have seen a number of answers from you and another expert on this site regarding parent consent. ... A: this is an excellent consent question, thanks for contacting me. Any child with a suspected ...
IEP and Due Process	5/15/2010
Q: I met for my daughters annual IEP in the middle of some suspected noncompliance that was not yet ... A: I fully understand your frustration. You said that at the IEP meeting, the team removed many ...
Sensory Integration	5/14/2010
Q: I have a couple of questions. My little boy has been in the gen. ed. classroom until recently. He ... A: I agree that parents' ability to be equal partners in the special education process is critical to a ...
Sensory Integration	5/14/2010
Q: I have a couple of questions. My little boy has been in the gen. ed. classroom until recently. He ... A: The change of placement should go into effect without your signature. Most parents I talk with are ...
IEP and Due Process	5/14/2010
Q: I met for my daughters annual IEP in the middle of some suspected noncompliance that was not yet ... A: Filing a due process hearing request kicks in a process called 'stay put', wherein the most recently ...
diploma track??when do you know?	5/6/2010
Q: I have a specific question about changing a high school student's diploma track. What is the ... A: Andrea, The appropriate time frame for changing a child with a disability's outcome is up to the ...
advocate for IEP meeting	4/23/2010
Q: We're getting ready to attend an IEP meeting, and I have two questions. We would either like to ... A: A parent can bring a person knowledgeable about his child to the IEP meeting, whether that person is ...
Due process hearing question	4/21/2010
Q: Davis: I was wondering how parents contact national experts to testify in due process hearings ... A: Strong, To contact an expert, I think you write a letter or email, possibly attaching some ...
placement	4/19/2010
Q: I have a 6-year-old child with Asperger's who is in a gen. ed. first grade class nearly full time. ... A: Mickey, It is illegal for the district not to invite a parent to a manifestation meeting. I feel ...
IEP development	4/19/2010
Q: I am trying to understand how an IEP is supposed to be developed per regulations. I ask this ... A: Your instinct that something is wrong with the process is correct. In my Special Needs Advocacy ...
Level of services	4/18/2010
Q: My daughter is currently in a private school for dyslexic children. For high school, we need to ... A: The Rowley standard is changing and indeed, students with disabilities must make meaningful progress ...
placement	4/16/2010
Q: I have a 6-year-old child with Asperger's who is in a gen. ed. first grade class nearly full time. ... A: I am sorry I am a little delayed in answering this very importantCan you tell me if they can remove ...
Vision THerapy	4/13/2010
Q: I have a 2 students who were getting Occupational Therapy until the Occupational Therapist dismissed ... A: specifically, vision therapy. First, it's important to understand that related services are ...
non-enrolled preschoolers receiving speech	3/27/2010
Q: For the 3-6 year-old who is not enrolled in school, but qualifies as speech and language impaired ... A: Amy--I have cut and pasted what I found for the rule you mentioned at the bottom of my response. If ...
educational help	3/26/2010
Q: my nephew has microcephley, absent seizures , learning difficu lties,be for he was diagnosed he had ... A: It sounds like your nephew's medical and educational needs are intertwined. Children with medical ...
Special Education Class: Not meeting the need	3/26/2010
Q: We are a family that lives in California. I have a son who has been in Special Education since he ... A: I will try my best to answer your overall question, which seems to be about the least restrictive ...
Dyscalculia or Something Else?	3/10/2010
Q: I've done some research online on the subject of dyscalculia, and believe I've finally identified ... A: Math and I Don't Mix, Congrats for your acceptance as an expert. That is really cool. Yes, I have ...
Dyscalculia or Something Else?	3/9/2010
Q: I've done some research online on the subject of dyscalculia, and believe I've finally identified ... A: again, Thanks for a great follow up. I would still recommend that you and your family approach the ...
Dyscalculia or Something Else?	3/9/2010
Q: I've done some research online on the subject of dyscalculia, and believe I've finally identified ... A: Math and I don't Mix--First I would like to applaud you for being so young, but so smart to reach ...
sensory integration	3/4/2010
Q: I'm confused. I've asked for an OT evaluation by a therapist certified in sensory integration, and ... A: YES! The private OT should be used for the sensory diet --not calling it that because it is a ...
specific IEP accommodations	3/4/2010
Q: My daughter has been diagnosed with ADHD, dyslexia and auditory processing disorder. She currently ... A: What an interesting question. I will do my best to answer fully given the space I have. First, a ...
sensory integration	3/4/2010
Q: I'm confused. I've asked for an OT evaluation by a therapist certified in sensory integration, and ... A: You have hit on a seminal issue that we encounter on a regular basis--the school district ...
data collection	3/2/2010
Q: I'm pretty sure I've written to you before, probably about this same concern. We don't seem able to ... A: Data collection IS a very important issue, as educational decisions should be based on DATA! After ...
Chapter 504	2/25/2010
Q: We have had a 504 plan for our son since last school year . This year when school started the school ... A: The district is incorrect to have the 504 plan "expire". Childen who are qualified under Section ...
withdrawing agreement	2/24/2010
Q: My wife and I are preparing for an ARD next week, and have a question. Part of the purpose to the ... A: You are bringing up two very important points: Data-driven progress monitoring, and parent ...
dyspraxia and upcoming IEP	2/22/2010
Q: My 2.5 year old daughter, adopted internationally at age 10 months, currently receives speech ... A: Here is a fact sheet: http://www.hhs.gov/ocr/civilrights/resources/factsheets/504.pdf And a guide: ...
dyspraxia and upcoming IEP	2/22/2010
Q: My 2.5 year old daughter, adopted internationally at age 10 months, currently receives speech ... A: The problem seems to be that, at the preschool level, your school district does not have a full ...
dyspraxia and upcoming IEP	2/21/2010
Q: My 2.5 year old daughter, adopted internationally at age 10 months, currently receives speech ... A: Wow, what a nice question, thanks. The first thing I would like to distinguish with you is the ...
not signing consent at an ARD	2/15/2010
Q: I am attending a brief ARD meeting tomorrow for my son. I was supposed to meet with the special ed. ... A: What an important question about parent consent! We have to find out what the regulations in your ...
FLUNKING KINDERGARTEN	2/10/2010
Q: My son will be 6 yrs old this month. He was a premie born 11 weeks early. He is presently in ... A: Child Find is required by the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act. Each school district ...
ESY	2/2/2010
Q: We recently requested our child's school records, and discovered that no data was collected by the ... A: This is such an important issue. I was at an annual review the other day and when we asked for the ...
related to special school	1/30/2010
Q: can you explain me what is concept of schools for special needs & what are their important features? A: A separate school for students with educational disabilities can be either public or private. The ...
Testing	1/28/2010
Q: My niece is STRUGGLING!The school is will NOT test her for special Ed. She is in the 3rd grade and I ... A: If the parents (which may be you,if you have guardianship, I am just not sure) have met with the ...
504 vs IEP- level of service difference?	1/21/2010
Q: My son Ryan is an 8yo second grade student. He was tested and diagnosed with ADHD and ODD right ... A: Jeanne, Ryan's needs seem to be complex. It is interesting that it appears that the school ...
special education records	1/19/2010
Q: It was suggested that I ask for my child's complete records and all communication or email or paper ... A: Here is the link to the Federal Register. It comes up as PDF. It is searchable, so search 'inspect ...
special education records	1/19/2010
Q: It was suggested that I ask for my child's complete records and all communication or email or paper ... A: Parents have a right to inspect their child's records under the Individuals with Disabilities ...
special education records	1/19/2010
Q: It was suggested that I ask for my child's complete records and all communication or email or paper ... A: School districts are required to keep confidential records securely and completely. If you have ...
special ed. questions	1/18/2010
Q: I actually have several questions. I wasn't sure who else to ask. I have two children on the autism ... A: Michelle, For the autism consult services, my guess is that you have been told the services were ...
special ed. questions	1/18/2010
Q: I actually have several questions. I wasn't sure who else to ask. I have two children on the autism ... A: I will do my best to give you answers that can help. 1--If you are compelled to help, here are ...
special ed advice	1/14/2010
Q: I am a subsitute teacher and sub often in the special ed department of my kid's elementary school. I ... A: First of all, thanks for writing about a great question. And thanks for subbing for classrooms that ...
IEP, ADHD, ODD, Anxiety, Kidney disease, Gerd	1/10/2010
Q: My son is six years old and in the first grade. He has been diagnosed with Axiety, ADHD, ODD, OCD( ... A: It sounds like Jacob is a bright student with good academic skills, who struggles with regulation ...
teachers aids responsbilities	12/16/2009
Q: My daughter is a teachers aid in a public school in the Philadelphia area and is required to work ... A: I think it hightlights how intensive the work in the field of special education can be. My ...
IEP Assistance Follow up Question	12/10/2009
Q: I returned my son's IEP with changes and a 3 page parent statement along with exhibits A-C. The ... A: As you probably know, the FBA should lead to the development of the Behavior Intervention Plan ...
Disruptive behavior in special Education class	12/5/2009
Q: My 5 year old son is in a PPCD2 class at a public school He has been diagnosed ADHD 2 yrs ago.tried ... A: I can imagine how concerned you are for your son. The short answer to your question, 'can the ...
Denial of services	12/3/2009
Q: My sons school has an after school program for extra help which he has been attending for 3 years ... A: If you sign the initial IEP and the initial IEP says that it will be delivered in another school, ...
FAPE	12/1/2009
Q: I have a son with autism who attends a public school. We've experienced multiple problems this year, ... A: When parents are concerned about the provision of FAPE, and want to request a 'fix' for a problem, ...
FAPE	11/30/2009
Q: I have a son with autism who attends a public school. We've experienced multiple problems this year, ... A: My short answer is yes to the question whether lack of or incorrect data relates to the provision of ...
Denial of services	11/29/2009
Q: My sons school has an after school program for extra help which he has been attending for 3 years ... A: Your good questions appear to have 2 parts: What can you do to get your son back into the after ...
IEP/504	11/25/2009
Q: My son 12yrs old, diag. w/auditory processing disorder in 2006 confirmed by Audiologist Specialist, ... A: You asked whether a panic disorder is a mental impairment (this would be under section 504). Yes, ...
special education question	11/13/2009
Q: I have two boys on the autism spectrum. Both attend public school in Texas. I have what I hope is a ... A: I think you are confusing a meeting notification with prior written notice. A meeting notification ...
special education question	11/12/2009
Q: I have two boys on the autism spectrum. Both attend public school in Texas. I have what I hope is a ... A: This is a great question. I searched your Texas code of regulations becuase some states do require ...
504 Plan	11/12/2009
Q: I have a daughter in 6th grade who has been diagnosed with OCD. I have asked the school to make ... A: again, Ann--I think the school could tell you almost anything, but it would not be appropriate for ...
504 Plan	11/12/2009
Q: I have a daughter in 6th grade who has been diagnosed with OCD. I have asked the school to make ... A: An outpatient program for Anxiety/OCD for a 6th grader may contain some instructional time and it ...
504	11/11/2009
Q: I am a 12 yeer old disleksic student. I go to cm (contint masturee) to take tests and hard ... A: A school does not have to spend money developing a 504 plan. The law does not have funding. The ...
Education	10/31/2009
Q: I am a teacher which is easier to learn reading throuth is it construtive or analysis? A: I am providing you with an article with plenty of research studies that indicate the research based ...
short concentration span	10/21/2009
Q: My five year old child has above average inteligence speaks fluently, has a very sharp observation, ... A: Five year olds are only just beginning to write. Cursive writing will work better for some 5 year ...
I need help pfor my 11 year old daughter	10/19/2009
Q: My daughter just entered Middle School in Clifton NJ. She has been in the Wallington District from ... A: You have been suspecting that your daughter has an educational disability for a long time. You ...
504 vs. IEP for 2 1/2 year old	10/18/2009
Q: Davis, So that you are better able to answer my questions, I've included some background ... A: First, I am very glad your daughter has benefitted from the intervention you wisely implemented ...
Follow- prior written notice 504 Plan. Can a school put this in a 504 Plan?	10/18/2009
Q: In my child's 504 Plan the school included: "The parent will limit email communication to one per ... A: J, I would not try to advise you specifically about your daughter's needs, but I would definitely ...
Follow- prior written notice 504 Plan. Can a school put this in a 504 Plan?	10/18/2009
Q: In my child's 504 Plan the school included: "The parent will limit email communication to one per ... A: Qualified individuals under the Rehabilitation Act, Section 504, are entitled to FAPE, just like ...
Can a school put this in a 504 Plan?	10/17/2009
Q: In my child's 504 Plan the school included: "The parent will limit email communication to one per ... A: I think it is time for you to be rigorous about removing this from your child's 504 plan. When I see ...
504 Qualification	10/13/2009
Q: Is it possible for a student to qualify for a 504 who did not qualify for Special Education but has ... A: Sheri, Yes, if a child is not found eligible for special education and related services under the ...
IEP for autism?	10/9/2009
Q: We had him tested last year at 4 1/2 from child study at pre k level and he passed most of the ... A: Michelle, Your question is about eligibility for special education, and the multidisciplinary team ...
LRE and Special Ed	10/3/2009
Q: LSE and Sp Ed laws truly help Sp Ed students. I am concerned about the main population of elementary ... A: and thank you for following up. In this situation, the 'special' classes like art and music ...
dropping my iep	10/2/2009
Q: Hey im a student at braun in oaf forest illinois and i want to drop my iep.There's one thing i dont ... A: Traci, Maybe you are trying to find ways to have the IEP move your placement. I applaud your self ...
LRE and Special Ed	10/1/2009
Q: LSE and Sp Ed laws truly help Sp Ed students. I am concerned about the main population of elementary ... A: Rosetherese, I did not see a direct question in your posting so I will respond to your concern ...
504 Plan for Christian School	9/30/2009
Q: I am a principal of a CA Christian School. We do not receive any state funds. The only federal funds ... A: While I understand the Archdiocese is committed to the development of programs for students with ...
504 Recommendations for depression and anxiety	9/29/2009
Q: I have a 15 year old freshman daughter with moderate to severe anxiety and depression. We are ... A: It seems clear from your email that the climate of the school is your concern. Many times, when ...
Calling for an ARD meeting	9/29/2009
Q: My question is this: Can a special education teacher call for a meeting to review her student's ... A: Either a school district or a parent can request a meeting at any time. IDEA 2004 along with No ...
special ed home bound services	9/25/2009
Q: We have (2) special needs daughters. Due health issues for both girls we have requested home bound ... A: Kim, Your question is whether the school district must provide different teachers or at least ...
Accomodations and law	9/22/2009
Q: I am a special education teacher and one of my middle school students came from a math class very ... A: You are a special educator whose student has calculation accommodations on his Individualized ...
accomodations nonpublic setting	9/19/2009
Q: Our 7 year old, second grade son is dyslexic and enrolled in a non-public Catholic school. He was ... A: I understand your question to be whether the Catholic School should develop a 504 plan for the ...
IEP Assistance	9/16/2009
Q: My son's IEP is coming up in the next several weeks. He is 9 and in a 3rd grade mainstream ... A: You are most welcome! Don't hesitate to follow up. I hope you will let me know how working with ...
IEP Assistance	9/15/2009
Q: My son's IEP is coming up in the next several weeks. He is 9 and in a 3rd grade mainstream ... A: One nice resource for finding an advocate is COPAA, Council of Parent Attorneys and Advocates at ...
IEP Assistance	9/15/2009
Q: My son's IEP is coming up in the next several weeks. He is 9 and in a 3rd grade mainstream ... A: Your question is loaded with the seminal issues we deal with in the field of special education. ...
504	9/11/2009
Q: I live in the state of PA can you please tell me who is responsible for writing a 504 plan in a ... A: The simple answer to "WHO" is responsible for writing the 504 plan is: 'the multidisciplinary ...
iep defintion	9/9/2009
Q: My son, Jacob, is entering the 2nd grade and the end of 1st grade was finally evaluated and was ... A: When you say that Jacob has become eligible for services, I am assuming you mean that the ...
Homebound vs. homeschool instruction	9/2/2009
Q: think I must have sent my follow up question without a subject. Thank you again for info re: why ... A: When students with disabilities who have previously received special education and related services ...
Homebound instruction vs. homeschooling	9/2/2009
Q: I am a social worker that works with special needs children, many who just can not function in a ... A: I hope you will understand my delay in responding as I am a bit new to All Experts and did not see ...
Homebound instruction vs. homeschooling	9/2/2009
Q: I am a social worker that works with special needs children, many who just can not function in a ... A: Only school districts can provide a free appropriate public education (FAPE) to children with ...
special needs advocacy	8/30/2009
Q: Test question from Michelle: Are you an educator or parent who would like to be a more effective ... A: The Special Needs Advocacy Training Institute is a 4 day, hands-on course for parents and educators. ...

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Michelle R. Davis, M. Ed.

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Expertise

I can answer questions about disability definitions and criteria for services, the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act 2004, No Child Left Behind, 504 plans, how to craft an IEP that drives the appropriate services, school placement, dispute options, and least restrictive environment. I worked in the public school system as a special educator and am now in private consulting practice where we assist parents as they navigate the special education process. I have expertise in all educational disabilities except blind/visual impairments and deaf/hard of hearing. This includes ADHD and other health impairments, medical conditions, dyslexia and learning disabilities, Autism, emotional disabilities, language processing problems, and interfering behaviors.

Experience

10 years as special educator and administrator in public school system; 11 years as Director of ABCs for Life Success; Author: Special Needs Advocacy Resource Book: What you can do now to advocate for your exceptional child's education; Special Needs Advocacy Training Institute; internet radio show Teach Your Children Well: Hot Topics in Education; author 2nd book released March 2010 (Prufrock Press).

Education/Credentials
Masters in Special Education with Emphasis on Inclusive Education (Johns Hopkins University); B.S.in Special Education (James Madison University); Conduct training for Universities, public and private schools, parent groups. Adjunct professor current George Washington University and prior George Mason University.

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