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Special Education/Questions Answered by Expert Tim Runner

Subject	Date Asked
IEP Classroom Accomodations	2/3/2012
Q: My son is in 4th grade and has an IEP. My son has a reading disability and a medical problem where ... A: Molly, An IEP is a legally binding contract between the parents and the school district. As such, ...
Testing/Assessment of my 3 yr old	1/29/2012
Q: My 3 1/2 year old son was a client of the Early Intervention program through the Regional Center in ... A: Amanda, Your school district is not doing what they are legally required to do. The law clearly ...
california iep prosses	1/27/2012
Q: My daughter qualifies under an iep for special ed classes. I went to the1st iep meeting. I did not ... A: Maria, Class placement is a common area of disagreement. You need to make sure they have assessed ...
IEP meeting	1/25/2012
Q: I have one additional question. I have an upcoming IEP meeting. The special education director has ... A: Jacquie, Either party can make an audio or video recording of an IEP meeting so long as they notify ...
IEP	1/22/2012
Q: My daughter is 7 yrs old and in a regular 1st grade classroom. She has been recommended for a self ... A: Jacquie, Lots of districts contract outside for services such as OT, PT, APE, S&L, ABA/IBI services ...
IEP	1/21/2012
Q: My daughter is 7 yrs old and in a regular 1st grade classroom. She has been recommended for a self ... A: Jacquie, You can go back two years if you were to file for Due Process. Thus, the district is ...
IEP	1/21/2012
Q: My daughter is 7 yrs old and in a regular 1st grade classroom. She has been recommended for a self ... A: Jacquie, In special education law there is the concept of "compensatory education" (Comp Ed) which ...
should related service providers attend ARD meeting	1/20/2012
Q: We're in Texas. My son's annual ARD is scheduled later this month. He receives in-home support from ... A: Michelle, Federal law clearly states that all people providing services to the student are to ...
Rights about a child with a disability being asked to leave a privet pre-school/daycare	1/13/2012
Q: My wife and I have been asked,or better yet,told for the second time that we need to take our child ... A: William, I am sorry to report that private schools are not held to the same standards as public ...
Transportation Services	10/29/2011
Q: Can a school district make parents consent on an intra-district transfer form to provide ... A: Laura, When the school transfer is requested by the District for a special education student ...
special education	10/14/2011
Q: at 3 it was clear that brian was not the same as my other children.he was diagnosed with chromosome ... A: -- Mary, You can send in writing a request for assessment for special education, specifically ...
Catholic school and IEP	9/20/2011
Q: I have a high functioning daughter that has Down syndrome in kindergarten. She passed her ... A: -- Cindy, When your child attends a private school at parent expense, the school district is only ...
"B" Grid Services	9/15/2011
Q: I would like to better understand what the expectation is when a student has "B" grid services. My ... A: -- Denise, I'm sorry, but I don't know what they mean by "B Grid services." What you should tell ...
minutes for resource or inclusion?	9/7/2011
Q: On the schedule page from the ARD, for both ELA and Math, the "Service Provider" and the "Grade ... A: -- Debbie, The law does not require that special education resource services be provided in a ...
IEP dismissal...	9/2/2011
Q: My son is in second grade and has an IEP for speech services only. The school is wanting to dismiss ... A: -- Denise, As I told you in my answer, they have to assess your son to show that his scores ...
No IEP meeting yet for current school year	9/2/2011
Q: Mr. Runner, My child has just entered 7th grade and has always been on an IEP for multiple ... A: -- Trish, Don't give in and don't let them wear you down. Your son must be served in all areas of ...
IEP dismissal...	9/2/2011
Q: My son is in second grade and has an IEP for speech services only. The school is wanting to dismiss ... A: -- Denise, In order to dismiss a child from special education services, the school must perform ...
Help from the public school system for my homeschooled disabled son	7/29/2011
Q: My son is eight years old and diagnosed with autism and reading delay. He was diagnosed with autism ... A: -- Edwina, If your son is enrolled in a home-school charter school, then the district this school ...
IEP	6/22/2011
Q: My daughter has mild to moderate autism and is nonverbal with beginning signing. She is almost 6 ... A: -- Kelly, You can rescind your signature on an IEP at any time. You need to do it in writing and ...
IEP-ABA for my 5 year old	5/17/2011
Q: my 5 year old son was diagnosed with mild to moderate Autism. We just had his IEP meeting and he is ... A: -- Kelly, Studies have shown the more ABA the better for young Autistic students. I wish you and ...
IEP-ABA for my 5 year old	5/13/2011
Q: my 5 year old son was diagnosed with mild to moderate Autism. We just had his IEP meeting and he is ... A: Kelly, The level of service you are now getting is minimal, and consultation services are not going ...
FBA	5/13/2011
Q: I am wondering if there are any state laws (specifically in MA) that state necessary qualifications ... A: Dinelle, The law says that assessments must be conducted by people trained in the administering of ...
"Trying out" a private school	5/9/2011
Q: Our child is currently in public middle school in 7th grade on an IEP which has just recently been ... A: John, The current IEP is terminated when you withdraw your child from public school. If your child ...
13 yr old with Aspergers- excessive suspensions	5/5/2011
Q: My son has a diagnosis of high functioning autism. We have known this since he was about 5 years ... A: Elizabeth, I represent many student that suffer from Aspergers. Most schools don't know how to best ...
Disagree with my son's evaluation results and IEP	5/3/2011
Q: My son started receiving services from birth due to complications from prematurity and obvious ... A: Christina, I assume that you did not sign the new IEP saying you agreed with it? (If by chance you ...
ESY and Adaptive PE	5/2/2011
Q: My son, who is 18 years old and diagnosed with autism, currently participates in a severely disabled ... A: Jeff, The districts are not required to offer ESY school days that mirror regular school year days ...
LRE in PA preschool?	4/21/2011
Q: Runner, My daughter is 4 years old. She has mild hypotonia and extreme joint laxity (due to ... A: Jennifer, I can only give you brief answers to your many questions because I volunteer my time to ...
IEP and transition to middle school	4/10/2011
Q: My son has autism and will be starting middle school in the fall. The district decided his ... A: Kari, Since your son has an IEP because of his Autism, the school does not have the authority to ...
504 vs. special education	4/5/2011
Q: why would I choose to have a student identified as 504 instead of OHI under the special education ... A: Maryann, I just turned down a 504 Plan for a client yesterday and insisted on an IEP. Here are my ...
Transfering Districts, PWN	4/2/2011
Q: I'd appreciate your input on my special education/IEP questions. Student moving from one district ... A: Jill, I am going to explain the law governing a student with an IEP transferring from one school ...
ESY - how do I prove FAPE is not individualized?	3/11/2011
Q: Our son qualifies for ESY. He is dx with high fx autism and is currently mainstreamed with a ... A: Hope, I make my living by fighting school districts for the services my clients desperately need. ...
Texas IEP provisons for children in private schools	2/15/2011
Q: My 4 yr old son currently receives Speech Therapy services through our local school district. Next ... A: Lauren, You don't indicate whether the one session per week is 30 minutes or longer. Legally, your ...
qualifying under speech and language	1/28/2011
Q: Does the child have to be in speech and language for a period of time before you can qualify him for ... A: Betty Rutter, Once a student qualifies for special education, they can receive just about any ...
Alternative education choices & laws for emotionally disturbed child	1/27/2011
Q: Our 13 yr. old was diagnosed with cerebral dysrhythmia, ADHD,and depressive mood disorder 4 years ... A: Kay, The law requires that the school district pay for private school if they can not serve the ...
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: Sandy, The district is required by law to provide all the special education services needed by a ...
FBA, manifestation determination, expulsion	1/6/2011
Q: I would like some clarification about the requirement of an FBA following or as part of a manifest ... A: Amy, Federal law does not mandate that an FBA be conducted in conjunction with a Manifestation ...
Moving from IEP to 504	12/27/2010
Q: My son had an IEP from K through 4th grade. This past spring at the end of his 4th grade school ... A: Marcy, Your son's school has not been fair with you. A child can not be exited from special ...
homeschooling	12/26/2010
Q: Michelle, We have made the decision to withdraw our very highly gifted, autistic (Asperger's), ... A: Sandy, Both federal law and Texas law require schools to offer special education services to ...
The District felt it unnecessary to test my son in order to prepare an appropriate IEP.	12/23/2010
Q: In 2002 when my son was 9 years old, he was evaluated for special education while in elementary ... A: Nanci, The law requires that each student being evaluated for special education must be assessed in ...
transportation	12/15/2010
Q: My child is a special needs child. He ride the school bus, but he like to remove clothing like ... A: Shavonne, Your son's IEP should specify that his clothing be put on him before he departs for the ...
private school placement	12/4/2010
Q: Under what conditions would a public school district be required to reimburse a parent for tuition ... A: JD Asperger students I represent have received placements in private schools, especially when there ...
Question about RSP	11/28/2010
Q: I am 36 years old male and through most of my life in school I was in RSP. I carried a normal life ... A: Rick, I have never heard the term "academic maturity", so I can only assume that academically you ...
Question about RSP	11/27/2010
Q: I am 36 years old male and through most of my life in school I was in RSP. I carried a normal life ... A: Rick, I believe that just because someone has a disability, he or she can still accomplish a great ...
evaluation	11/19/2010
Q: My wife and I recently requested that the district use the Sensory Processing Measure to assess our ... A: David, I have fights with districts all the time over access to assessment protocols. The districts ...
SDC	11/17/2010
Q: I have a 13 yr.old child who suffers from SDC and now she attends 8th grade and is taking 50% ... A: Mario, You don't mention if your daughter's class changes were made in an IEP Team meeting. The law ...
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: Christy, Dyslexia is one form of a visual processing disorder. You should write a letter to the ...
Question regarding IEP Evaluation Process	10/28/2010
Q: I have an 11 year old son who has had a 504 since 2nd grade. We had him re-evaluated in second ... A: Terri, It is not true that just because a student gets good grades, her or she will not qualify for ...
parent training	10/21/2010
Q: I'm hoping you can give me some ideas regarding the parent training that's specified in my son's ... A: Sara, I have had school districts pay for parents to receive ABA/DTT training and I've had others ...
IEP compliance for ABA hours at school (pre-k)	10/15/2010
Q: My daughter has 4X60 per week of 1:1 ABA DTT readiness skills on her IEP. My district decided to do ... A: Kim, You have two options: Option 1 is to file a "non-compliance" complaint with your State's ...
504	10/7/2010
Q: If a child has a medical eval/diagnosis from 3years ago and has not been in sp.ed. or on a 504 (per ... A: I am sorry, but you have not provided enough information for me to answer your question. What is the ...
grade retention	9/25/2010
Q: A friend of mine has a son with ADHD. He is currently attending a school in a school district in ... A: Glenn, A student with an IEP has to have all decisions related to placement (as well as services) ...
IEP due process/remove from Spec Ed	9/17/2010
Q: My case is not simple. We are in due process because we did not agree with the district’s offer for ... A: Shannon, You are correct in stating your daughter's situation. It is very unusual for a school ...
SDC Aides	8/26/2010
Q: Are all special day classes required by law to have an aide assisting in the classroom? A: No. It depends on: which state you live in; how many students are in the class; whether it is ...
Case Manager vs Teacher	8/14/2010
Q: Is it mandatory that a case manager for students with learning disabilities (special education) also ... A: Typically the case manager for a special education student is a resource teacher. If the student is ...
Tranferring IEP	8/4/2010
Q: My 8yo son has an IEP developed by a school district in Virginia. We are moving to Alabama. School ... A: Steve, Under federal law, when a child with an IEP changes schools, the new school must honor (to ...
request one on one aide	7/2/2010
Q: My kid will be 5 and ready for kindergarten next fall. He has been attending special education ... A: Bang, The district always has the option of filing for Due Process against you, if you refuse to ...
Sp Ed class time requirements	6/25/2010
Q: Is that amount of time a legal limitation or limitation made up by my district to categorize ... A: I am not aware of any legal definitions based on per cent of time a student spends in special day ...
IEP/Accomdations	6/23/2010
Q: My son has languaged based learning disabilities, anxiety, ADD, He has been getting services since ... A: The IEP Team has the ultimate authority for student placement and services. The IEP Team can, and in ...
Therapeutic High School placement	6/21/2010
Q: My 16 y/o daughter attempted suicide 4 months ago. Since then, she has been diagnosed with Social ... A: Based on all that you state in your questions, your daughter needs help that is not available in a ...
request one on one aide	6/11/2010
Q: My kid will be 5 and ready for kindergarten next fall. He has been attending special education ... A: Most districts state what they told you when they don't want to give you the bad news in person. The ...
ADHD and not sucessful in school	5/22/2010
Q: My student has a low IQ 71 and according to diag. he is at or above his IQ level so does not qualify ... A: The student can not qualify for special education in the category of mentally retarded with an IQ of ...
ADHD and not sucessful in school	5/22/2010
Q: My student has a low IQ 71 and according to diag. he is at or above his IQ level so does not qualify ... A: The law requires that the school assess the student in all areas of suspected disability when the ...
testing	5/14/2010
Q: I provide a private evaluation to the school for my daughter who qualifies for an IEP based on her ... A: The parent must agree in advance in writing to any assessments given to their child. Under the law, ...
IEP	5/14/2010
Q: I think my daughters IEP wasn't followed one day because there's supposed to be a one to one aide ... A: I don't know how you can provide proof that your daughter was not given a 1 to 1 all day -- a ...
OT	5/14/2010
Q: I have a couple of questions. My little boy has been in the gen. ed. classroom until recently. He ... A: Once you agree to a change in placement, you can become stuck with it no matter what is said by the ...
help	5/6/2010
Q: I don't know what to do about what I have not only witnessed but have heard from my own son on the ... A: I suggest you go to the principal with your concerns and see what he or she says can be done. If you ...
IEP and school violating paretns rights	5/1/2010
Q: Is it not the school's responsibility to provide parents with a release of info form so that they ... A: Yes, the school must get a release signed by the parents before contacting your child's doctors, ...
Developmental Optometry and Vision Therapy as a related service	4/26/2010
Q: My third grade son has been identified as having several visual perception and visual processing ... A: The districts I have dealt with all over the country consider this a "medical diagnosis and ...
IEP/504	4/22/2010
Q: Runner, My son is in the 5th grade and has had an IEP since K originally under Autism for ... A: Lisa Based on what you stated in your question, your son should stay on an IEP and should be ...
Insuffieient Services	4/16/2010
Q: I have a few questions regarding the legal requirement of the school to identify children needing ... A: I am a little uncomfortable giving you suggestions given that you say you have an advocate. Your ...
Required IEP team members and non attendance	3/27/2010
Q: I've had difficulty providing documentation of the consequences to a regular education teacher for ... A: The law requires specific participation in each IEP. There is supposed to be a general education ...
Special Ed & Ongoing Difficulities	3/26/2010
Q: I’m writing and seeking your input on behalf of my girlfriend and her 14 yr old daughter who’s in ... A: You are correct, I always conduct a Case Review when I accept a new client. I have to know what has ...
Special Ed & Ongoing Difficulities	3/22/2010
Q: I’m writing and seeking your input on behalf of my girlfriend and her 14 yr old daughter who’s in ... A: It sounds to me that your girlfriend needs to be represented by an advocate. I have represented ...
Dismissal IEP	3/16/2010
Q: I have a fourth grader with dyslexia. We have become extremely frustrated and tired with the lack ... A: You do not have to attend this IEP, but the school is obligated to hold it so they can legally exit ...
504 plans and catholic schools	3/15/2010
Q: I have seen some of the questions about 504 plans and Catholic schools. I understand that don't ... A: It sounds to me that they are receiving federal money through a number of sources, and therefore, ...
ARD questions	3/5/2010
Q: I attended an ARD meeting today for my son & have two questions. 1) I wanted to assign my ... A: I am aware of nothing in the law saying the district has to reconvene the full ARD meeting, but ...
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 are right and you are wrong. Assessing sensory issues falls into the services that OTs can ...
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: Parents can rescind their signature on an IEP at any time. But, you have to consider all the ...
IEP & Resource minutes	2/18/2010
Q: Runner, If a student has a current IEP with 1200 minutes for Resource per month in a special ... A: All changes in services called for in an IEP must be specified in a new IEP, or an IEP Addendum. ...
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: Most parents do not realize how much power they have in the IEP process. You have to agree before ...
effect of withdrawal on IEP	2/14/2010
Q: If a child with an IEP withdraws from public school because of bullying and registers for home ... A: Yes, the school is legally obligated to provide direct special education services to any qualifying ...
Home schooling?	2/2/2010
Q: I work at a public school in Wisconsin as a speech language pathologist. Recently, one of my speech ... A: The law says that a student qualifying for special education services, such as speech and language, ...
One on One aide	1/28/2010
Q: I was just wondering if you could tell me the legal requirements that must be met before a school ... A: There is no standardized assessment to determine the need for an 1 to 1 aide. Most schools try to ...
Preschool children	1/21/2010
Q: The preschool children are being encouraged to write their names, or as close as possible, on their ... A: I am not an expert on preschool education so I encourage you to contact someone who is. I personally ...
CA - Assessment Report EC 56327	1/20/2010
Q: Runner, The CA Ed. Code 56327 states that "the personnel who assess the pupil shall prepare a ... A: The law also says that the persons doing the assessing must be qualified for the assessments they ...
missing records	1/20/2010
Q: It was suggested that I ask for my child's complete records and all communication or email or paper ... A: The law says you are entitled to your child's school records. Emails concerning your child are ...
missing 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: On behalf of my clients, I fight all the time with school districts for student records. First you ...
special education testing	1/16/2010
Q: Can I have another special ed teacher help with testing of a child and then I take the results and ... A: The IEP can be prepared by any teacher qualified to do so with their knowledge and experience. ...
Placement in special day class	1/13/2010
Q: My daughter is in a special education day class. She has been identified as having specific ... A: The law says that each child with special needs should be placed in the least restrictive class that ...
Special educational accommodations for son with Asperger's	1/6/2010
Q: My son is 14 and has Asperger's Syndrome. School has never been exactly easy for us, but over the ... A: You have every right to ask for a reduction in homework and the portion of the grade based on the ...
504 plan	12/14/2009
Q: Can a consultant teacher be written up as an intervention in a 504 plan? A school is pushing to ... A: The question the parents have to answer is: "What kind of education will the girl be able to receive ...
My son has a problems at school.	12/13/2009
Q: My son is ten year old with Asperger's and ADHD. He was diagnosed when he was five and I've had ... A: You have been put through the mill by your son's school. I represent a number of Aspergers students ...
dismissal	11/27/2009
Q: Student was up for a 3 year eval. The team determined that there were no longer needs and decided ... A: You can have your child assessed as often as needed, just make your request in writing and explain ...
IEP/504 qualifications	11/24/2009
Q: My son 12yrs old, diag. w/auditory processing disorder in 2006 confirmed by Audiologist Specialist, ... A: You did not indicate how he is performing academically. His grades and his scores on the academic ...
Manifestation Determination and expulsion; emotionally disturbed student	11/20/2009
Q: My child is 16 yrs old and has IEP for emotional disturbance. In a special day class. Has hx of ... A: I recommend that you sign the Manifestation Hearing decision just as soon as you can. The district ...
Manifestation Determination and expulsion; emotionally disturbed student	11/18/2009
Q: My child is 16 yrs old and has IEP for emotional disturbance. In a special day class. Has hx of ... A: Based on what you stated in your question, you definitely need an experienced advocate. I work with ...
IEP manifestation	11/15/2009
Q: My son is 7 in the first grade and has had an IEP since he was 4 in pre-k. Originally there was a ... A: When a child has an IEP, he or she can only be suspended 10 days in any one school year before there ...
a parent's right to review data	11/12/2009
Q: I have two boys on the autism spectrum. Both attend public school in Texas. I have had a hard time ... A: The law says that when requested in writting, the school is to provide you with assessment results ...
speech services, etc	11/1/2009
Q: We had IEP for hearing impaired daughter in May last year. District could not offer more than twice ... A: You should attend the new IEP because the district has the right to call one. At this IEP, explain ...
SPED referrals	10/19/2009
Q: what is the time line for holding a ppt 1 when a parent makes a request for special education ... A: There is no timeline for holding a PPT-1 (also called an SST Meeting in some areas). The law says ...
Grading problem	10/17/2009
Q: My daughter is 14 and in the 8th grade. She was diagnosed with aspergers two years ago. I just found ... A: They should not be using these criteria for academic grades. They can use them for citizenship ...
IEP for PSAT	10/14/2009
Q: Good Morning, My daughter has an IEP for Dyslexia and goes to a public school... Her IEP state 2.5 ... A: It is up to the company that publishes the PSAT to set the rules. I suggest you contact them and ...
IEP	10/13/2009
Q: My son, who is 2 1/2 years old was recently diagnosed as autistic by the psychologist from Early ... A: I am very pleased that your son has been diagnosed early and is receiving the services he needs. ...
1:1 Aide in Non Public School	10/12/2009
Q: My 6 year old son has bipolar/ADHD we live in ny nassau county are we allowed to request an aide for ... A: Unfortunately, I can't give you a good answer to your questions because I don't have enough ...
Manifestation meeting and IEP meetings	10/5/2009
Q: A special education student on an IEP is having a Manifestation Meeing. The student is tuition-in ... A: Both LEA's should attend IEP's and Manifestation meetings since both are involved in the student's ...
IEP/PT/Homeschool	10/4/2009
Q: Ok, well Pat(My son) will graduate 8th grade this year. He has an IEP based on his physical ... A: Under the law, school districts are required to provide special education services to qualifying ...
Sp.Ed. Services for Privately-Educated Students	9/30/2009
Q: My son needs speech therapy for Apraxia of Speech, OT and PT. He is now 4 and will not attend ... A: You should have your son assessed by a speech pathologist. Many medical insurance programs will pay ...
Dismissal from special ed services	9/29/2009
Q: My son has been receiving spec ed serv since elementary school, and now is currently a senior. He is ... A: What you have been told does not conform to federal law. For a student to be dismissed from special ...
my son keeps getting pulled into "special help" classes without our knowledge	9/22/2009
Q: This is really a long question and I apologize. We have been dealing with this ever since we ... A: The law is clear in defining the approach that is supposed to be taken to place a student in special ...
Son on spectrum with GAD and IEP	9/17/2009
Q: My son is 6. He was diagnosed with autism spectrum - high functioning autism when he was 3. He is ... A: Disabilities qualifying for special education include a category of "Emotionally Disturbed (ED)." ...
Son on spectrum with GAD and IEP	9/16/2009
Q: My son is 6. He was diagnosed with autism spectrum - high functioning autism when he was 3. He is ... A: The school is required to assess students in "all areas of suspected disability." This means they ...
nys child iep	9/13/2009
Q: I am hoping that you will be able to answer this question.On a child nys Iep it states realted ... A: Your child's IEP obligates the school district to providing a 1 to 1 paraprofessional 6 hours per ...
10th GradeIEP- referred to a school that does not offer any Sped services	9/12/2009
Q: Runner, My sons story is a long one. I will do my best to give you the short version. We moved to a ... A: You have really been through the education mill. Every time you ask them to assess your son, they ...
Manifest Determination	9/9/2009
Q: it is clear that a Manifest Determination (MD) is required before a sp.ed. student can be suspended ... A: They have to hold a meeting to determine if the student needs a change in placement and/or services ...
Manifest Determination	9/9/2009
Q: it is clear that a Manifest Determination (MD) is required before a sp.ed. student can be suspended ... A: A Manifestation Determination Hearing is required to suspend a special education student a total of ...
Parent request in writing for testing	8/11/2009
Q: Regarding your response to a"Federal Law requires that school districts assess students for special ... A: School districts can refuse to conduct testing for special education even after the parents have ...
Discontinued ABA Services (in home)	6/21/2009
Q: The school district administrator is taking away in-home ABA services they agreed to pay for until ... A: Ed, You did the right thing by not signing for the ABA being discontinued. Now you need to write ...
Violation of IEP	6/16/2009
Q: My son was sent to an alternative placement for special education. His IEP stated that he was ... A: Roseann, The simple answer is yes your son should receive "comp-ed" for the services not provided ...
Curtis Age 8	6/11/2009
Q: My son is 8 and passing to the third grade he was diagnosed with Asperger and ADHD two years ago. He ... A: School psychologists are not allowed to make medical diagnoses. Only clinical psychologists and ...
Addendum page	6/9/2009
Q: Can one use an addendum page to exit a student from special education? Situation: Parent and ... A: You can use an IEP Addendum to exit your son from special education, but I would suggest you hold a ...
Retention and Down Syndrome	6/8/2009
Q: I'll make this as succint as possible. I have a son who will be 7 in August. He is currently in a ... A: Jeanne, Why is it so important to you to have your son designated as a first grader given that he ...
IEP	6/6/2009
Q: My son has an IEP meeting on Tuesday June 9. After reviewing the IEP asssessment (draft) it appears ... A: Jann, School districts usually claim that a student has to be significantly below his grade level ...
Dislexia / Medical Proof	5/31/2009
Q: I am interested in specific clarification with regard to a response you wrote to a previous ... A: Judy, It's good to know that someone is reading my answers. You obviously have a very complicated ...
Resource Room	5/27/2009
Q: My son just had his annual iep meeting last week; after the meeting when looking at the matrix i ... A: Parents are members of the IEP Team and they are to be included in the development of the IEP as ...
Resource Room	5/22/2009
Q: My son just had his annual iep meeting last week; after the meeting when looking at the matrix i ... A: Lissa, Each IEP is supposed to address the unique needs of the student. RSP is not "last resort" ...
Dismissal	5/22/2009
Q: If the parent and both general education teachers refuse to sign a dismissal of services ... A: Danna, I assume from your question that the school wants to exit your som from special education. ...
Asperger's in Catholic school	5/22/2009
Q: Our son has Asperger's. We've been advised by our doctors to develop a 504 plan before he starts ... A: Kim, You can file a complaint with the Office of Civil Rights because they must "do 504 Plans." Or ...
CSE meeting	5/21/2009
Q: I am hoping that you can give me some direction on what to do, my son is 8 yrs old and will be going ... A: Lisa, You should tell them just what you wrote in your question to me. Your son should be assessed ...
ca school dx child as autism	5/21/2009
Q: I have a great concern with my six year old in kinder. His teacher, school psychologist and the ... A: Erica, I don't know who the "expert" was in the main testing site, but they are wrong! I have ...
Termination of an IEP Program	5/20/2009
Q: I have a 11 year old and he is been on the IEP Program since he was 4 they told me he had a speach ... A: Norma, Most parents retain my services to get their children in special education, not out of it. ...
ADHD rights in a private christian academy	5/19/2009
Q: My 7 year old was dignosed with ADHD the summer before kindergarden. She has has some challenges, ... A: Private religious schools can decide which students they will allow to attend. There is really ...
IQ too low for special ed	5/14/2009
Q: I am looking for anyone who can explain to me how a student's IQ can be too low for special ... A: Kris Ann, There is no such thing as an IQ being too low to qualify for special education. If the ...
collage	5/8/2009
Q: I was in special Education classes all through high school and remember them saying about ... A: I suggest that you do an Internet search and talk with advisors at each college you are considering. ...
SpEd evaluation	5/6/2009
Q: My friend has a due process hearing in May, his child is ADD(inattention)and suffers from ... A: Yes, I make my living as an education advocate, therefore I have to charge for my services. My fees ...
Speech, Behavior, Education for my son	5/5/2009
Q: My son is 8 yrs. old and has a diagnosis of Autism and has a current IEP. For the past several ... A: Contact your state's insurance commissioner's office for help. You did not tell me what state you ...
Speech, Behavior, Education for my son	5/4/2009
Q: My son is 8 yrs. old and has a diagnosis of Autism and has a current IEP. For the past several ... A: Brenda, Most school districts will assess students for additional services, such as the ones you ...
SpEd evaluation	5/4/2009
Q: My friend has a due process hearing in May, his child is ADD(inattention)and suffers from ... A: Kriss, From what you say in your question, the school did not conduct the legally required ...
All Inclusive Classrooms	4/30/2009
Q: My son is currently attending a special education center in Texas. He was placed in the ... A: Valerie, The federal law calls for students to be placed in "the least restrictive environment." ...
daughter gifted and PTSD	4/28/2009
Q: SHe has a 504 that was not followed and I am looking into how we may qualify her for an IEP. Can ... A: If the school has not implemented the 504 Plan, then you can file a complaint with the Office of ...
Special Education	4/25/2009
Q: My son is in an inclusion classroom with a regular teacher and special education teacher. Its a ... A: Parents can get a "reputation." This is why some hire an advocate so we can take the heat. I always ...
Special Education	4/24/2009
Q: My son is in an inclusion classroom with a regular teacher and special education teacher. Its a ... A: In writing, you need to call for an IEP Team Meeting and express your concerns. Make sure they put ...
which tests for evaluation for IEP for child with aspergers?	4/24/2009
Q: Can I request a specific test or type of test? I know what is usually done, but I want to be sure ... A: I changed your question to a "public" question from a "private" one. I don't answer "private" ...
Preschool Placement	4/24/2009
Q: I have a preschool daughter with developmental delays, and we live in Shanghai where she attends ... A: All of your answers are correct. Federal law states that if the IEP team finds the student eligible ...
Question on IEP and placement	4/22/2009
Q: I have a 14 yo stepdaughter that has been diagnosed with Bi-polar, NPD, BPD and hoarding. Further to ... A: I am located in Southern California, but I practice in Northern California as well as many other ...
Question on IEP and placement	4/22/2009
Q: I have a 14 yo stepdaughter that has been diagnosed with Bi-polar, NPD, BPD and hoarding. Further to ... A: Janet, I don't know what state you are located in. This can make some difference in your approach. ...
Ca law for IEP services	4/18/2009
Q: my almost 5 year old son has an IEP currently providing him with speech and OT. He is bright, but ... A: Sharon, Most school districts have a policy allowing parents to choose when their child will begin ...
504	4/17/2009
Q: I have a son with convergence insufficiency which makes it difficult to aligin his eyes. He has a ... A: You can ask for a special education assessment in writing listing your son's areas of suspected ...
504 plan	4/17/2009
Q: I am trying to get my 14 year old daughter on a 504 plan because of attention issues. Under section ... A: Some schools require testing before placing a child on a 504 Plan. I encourage you to have your ...
504	4/16/2009
Q: I have a son with convergence insufficiency which makes it difficult to aligin his eyes. He has a ... A: All of the modifications and accommodations you have listed can be included in a 504 Plan. I ...
Question	4/2/2009
Q: Good Morning, I have a neighbor who has a child that has down syndrome and attends the local public ... A: Barbara, Your neighbor is probably going to have to file for Due Process in order to be able to get ...
Math--Spcial Education IEP	3/31/2009
Q: I have a question concerning the resources available for my 14 year old daughter who is in a 7th ... A: Margie, It certainly sounds like your child is not being served well in her special education math ...
Instant Speed Learning Methods	3/30/2009
Q: My name is Julian and I have a learning disability. I suffer from auditory dyslexia but despite ... A: Julian, You are great! Overcoming your disability and going beyond what the horrible nay-sayers ...
Removal of a Service from IEP	3/26/2009
Q: I am wondering about the legality of removing a current service from the IEP if the parent wishes to ... A: Lauri, School districts can not unilaterally change the placement and/or services in an IEP unless ...
questions IEP	3/25/2009
Q: My daughters IEP is written for a 35-40 hours of ABA therapy under a contract with Wisconsin early ... A: Jackie, The IEP is a legally binding agreement between the school district and the parents/student. ...
Services and State Approved programs	3/22/2009
Q: Would a school district have to provide an assistance communicative device to a student If he or she ... A: LaQuane, The school district is required to provide special education services to students ...
504 plan	3/19/2009
Q: my granddaughter qualifies for a 504 plan at public school. she is now home schooled as grades were ... A: Joni, If your daughter was receiving any services, such as speech, under her 504 Plan, then the ...
going to school out of district	3/16/2009
Q: I live in Michigan. Am not happy with the education that my cognitively impaired daughter is ... A: Cindy, Both your school district and the other school district must agree with the change in ...
Selective Mutism	3/15/2009
Q: I have a son with selective mutism who will be 5 in May and is starting Kinder next year. He is ... A: Becky, Under the special education law, school districts must implement "Child Find" programs for ...
IDEA clarrification of my rights as a parent	3/15/2009
Q: My son has had an IEP since he was 2.5 years old. He has recently made the transition to ... A: Heather, They can't just remove your child from special education. You have to sign the IEP ...
re-evaluation	3/13/2009
Q: My 7yr old son is in 1st grade and is on a iep. He qualified for services in ... A: Lissa, I you did not sign an IEP stating the reduction in your son's services, then they can not ...
Resource Specialist Services	3/13/2009
Q: I live in California. My administrator is directing us to limit the students we recommend for RSP ... A: Cyndi, Your administrator is wrong! There are no specific special education qualifying conditions ...
Selective Mutism	3/12/2009
Q: I have a son with selective mutism who will be 5 in May and is starting Kinder next year. He is ... A: Becky, Selective mutism is considered a speech and language disorder and qualifies for special ...
Private Special Ed School Funding	3/12/2009
Q: My son is 8 and has a diagnosis of Autism (high functioning) and pretty severe ADHD. He is in 2nd ... A: Brenda, The school district should be providing speech therapy, behaviorist and any other services ...
Dismissal from Special Education	3/11/2009
Q: May a student(Texas High School Senior), currently in SPED and extremely close to graduation, be ... A: Larry, Any changes in ARD (IEP) must be signed by you indicating you have accepted all the changes. ...
LRE	3/5/2009
Q: Is it legal or appropriate for a school system to change a student from a separate private day ... A: Mark, Student placement must be decided by the full IEP Team, not by a district person acting on ...
Repatriating to US with Special Needs Child	2/26/2009
Q: We have lived overseas for a number of years, and are returning to the US this fall, as we have a ... A: Daisy, You will need to contact the school district in the area in which you settle. They should ...
reading specialist and special education	2/25/2009
Q: My K4 and K5 boys have heredity issues and been tested as likely to have dyslexia and ADHD. They ... A: Joanna, The special education law does not specifically address reading specialists. What it says ...
How do I get an class aide for my son?	2/24/2009
Q: I have a 6yr old son who is high functioning autistic. We have held him back in kindergarten the ... A: Misty, The principal is really saying he won't provide a 1 to 1 aide. The education law says that ...
My son's IEP	2/21/2009
Q: I have a 6yr old son who is high functioning autistic. We have held him back in kindergarten the ... A: Misty, Holding a child in Kindergarten for a third year is not a solution. Unfortunately, I can't ...
Dismissal of related/instructional services	2/18/2009
Q: If a child is showing no improvement, goals have been adjusted and lowered ,progress is just not ... A: Anthony, The short answer is "no!" The law calls for children qualifying for special education are ...
therapuetic listening	2/16/2009
Q: my 4 year old son is in a 4-k program, and has a speech delay. He is getting help with his speech ... A: Julie, I am familiar with listening programs that play classical music in the background through ...
California law as regards provision of accommodations specified in student IEPs	2/11/2009
Q: I am currently a Special Education teacher in San Jose, CA. It has recently come to my attention ... A: Students are supposed to receive the services and accommodations included in their IEP. The parents ...
IEP for future Home Schooled child	2/4/2009
Q: My son needs speech therapy for Apraxia of Speech. He is now 4 and will not attend public school, ... A: Frank, School districts are required to provide qualifying home schooled students special education ...
Manifestation Determination (sp)	2/3/2009
Q: My 17 year old son is diagnosed with Asperger's Syndrome and has an IQ of 88. We have recently ... A: I am going to have to make this the final follow-up I can answer from you. My goal is to help as ...
The IEP team refuse to allow my son in the regular class for Reading, Language Arts and Math	2/3/2009
Q: The IEP team refuse to allow my son in the regular class for Reading, Language Arts and Math. For ... A: Ava, The law says that special education students should be placed in the least restrictive ...
Manifestation Determination (sp)	1/28/2009
Q: My 17 year old son is diagnosed with Asperger's Syndrome and has an IQ of 88. We have recently ... A: Jayne, Once a student graduates the school district does not have to provide any services to him. ...
IEP timelines for transfer students	1/27/2009
Q: I need to know where in IDEA to find the information on how long a school district can implement the ... A: Elizabeth, On my web site there is a link to the U.S. Department of Education that has a search ...
Special education resource	1/22/2009
Q: I was told that when our resource teacher in my daughters school will be out on personal days, their ... A: I have changed your question to a "public" question so that I can answer it. I do not see where your ...
Expulsion Senior Student	1/18/2009
Q: I would like to set up a consultation. I have a 17 1/2 year old son a senior in high school. He is ... A: Because it sounds like the expulsion hearing is related to the retaliation, you need to get your ...
Selective Mutism	1/18/2009
Q: His teachers have recommended I have his assessed for selective mutism. I requested an assessment ... A: Becky, Any "medical condition" that impacts the ability of a child to access an education, must be ...
Stay-provision after the school has expelled a student	1/16/2009
Q: A student with an IEP (emotional disorder) was charged with violations at school (not serious bodily ... A: Anna, Once you file for Due Process over this matter, you can file a motion for stay put. You need ...
Parents Rights and Placement	1/14/2009
Q: My son is a 5 year old boy who has been diagnosed with bipolar disorder since the age of three. He ... A: Mer, The decision to change your son's placement must be made by the IEP Team that you are a part ...
IEP and IEE	1/13/2009
Q: Our son has had a LD,since the age of 3, beginning with Speech Therapy. He is currently in the 5th ... A: Tony, It is too bad that your son may have been misdiagnosed for all these years. It sounds like his ...
NPS teacher involvement in IEP	1/12/2009
Q: Our 7-year-old is diagnosed on the autistic spectrum. He has always been in private/non-public ... A: Anna, You are correct, the current teacher should be at the IEP to report on his levels of ...
Mistake in eval-504 failing	1/2/2009
Q: My son Dx ADHD from school system since 2nd grade and had eval. via school system 2nd grade. They ... A: Linda, You can file a complaint with the Office of Civil Rights -- they have a form to complete and ...
school failed to ID need for IEP	12/28/2008
Q: Tim, What are my rights against a public school district that failed to identify and therefore offer ... A: Lina, It sounds like the school has not served your son as required under the law. You have the ...
Dyslexia accommodations	12/14/2008
Q: I have a 14 year old son who will be starting high school next year. We live in Micigan and he is ... A: Cherie, If one of the accommodations in his 504 Plan involves having an aide for tests, then the ...
Hospital& Home School	12/12/2008
Q: SPED student in a SDC class was recommended by two physicians NOT to attend school because of ... A: Stephen, The nurse was wrong! The law requires that the school district provide home/hospital ...
re: determining eligibility for one to one aide	12/9/2008
Q: I have a three year old with a global developmental delay about to start preschool. We went to her ... A: Tina, Unfortunately there is not criteria established in the law for when a student should have a ...
transportation	12/3/2008
Q: My son is autistic, 17 years old and attends a BOCES program in NY state. We have been very flexible ... A: Jennifer, Transportation is a difficult area because the law only says the school district has to ...
Manifestation Determination (sp)	12/3/2008
Q: My 17 year old son is diagnosed with Asperger's Syndrome and has an IQ of 88. We have recently ... A: Jayne, It sounds like your son is not being served well by his new school. His case manager does ...
IEP	11/23/2008
Q: I have tried to get my son an IEP since middleschool, never qualified, we only have a 504..which is ... A: Liz, Just as every child is different, every IEP is different. Each IEP is supposed to present the ...
Special Ed Preschool Student-Teacher ratios (California)	11/21/2008
Q: What is the legal student to teacher ratio and/or class size limit for a special education preschool ... A: Jennifer, I did a quick look at the California Education Code and could not find any size ...
my daughters 504, and her rights	11/21/2008
Q: I just had a update meeting after my daughters neuropsychologist re-evaluation.He discovered she has ... A: Reena, Your daughter should be assessed for special education under an IEP (Independent Educational ...
Nevada Private School and IEP	11/20/2008
Q: My child is in the grade and diagnosed this year with Dysgraphia and was diagnosed three years ago ... A: Michelle, Private schools can expel a child at any time for almost any reason unless it involves ...
Transportation Laws	11/15/2008
Q: I have a twelve year old younger sister and she is having difficulties with another young man on the ... A: Douglas, If I understand your question, your sister is a special education student with an IEP. ...
iep	11/14/2008
Q: E.P. for a child if they miss school due to a family vacation, or is I.E.P. strictly for special ... A: Robin, IEPs are only for special needs children, not kids going on vacations. You can discuss your ...
IEP for autistic child	11/12/2008
Q: Can my son have an special educator to go home at no charge if he has an IEP from his local public ... A: Maria, It depends on which state you live in. Here in California we have Regional Centers that ...
My son's school will not provide testing for possible LD	11/5/2008
Q: The teacher at my son's school suggested that I take him to the pediatrician as he has had a hard ... A: Jill, Federal Law requires that school districts assess students for special education if the ...
SPECIAL EDUCATION	10/31/2008
Q: RUNNER; MY NAME IS JESSICA MARTINEZ. I LIVE IN LAS VEGAS NEVADA. I AM 18 YEARS OLD. I DROPPED OUT OF ... A: Jessica, I applaud you for wanting to continue your education. You have two options: Contact your ...
PPT vs manifestation meeting	10/31/2008
Q: I recently requested a PPT meeting to review and revise my child's BIP, a student with an ... A: Charlyne, Just as you can request a PPT meeting at anytime, districts can ask for a manifestation ...
Testing?	10/28/2008
Q: My son is 8 years old and in the second grade. He is a good students but struggles in some areas. ... A: Karen, Based on what you stated in your question, your son should be assessed for special education ...
504	10/16/2008
Q: My son has a 504 plan for his skin condition, eczema. He now changed schools to attend High School. ... A: Marta, You can ask for a 504 Team Meeting where you present your son's doctor's note saying he no ...
504 plan/ bus transportation	10/14/2008
Q: My son has a 504 plan and is approved for an IEP that is being written. He is on the SPED bus ... A: Janice, It sounds like your son had quite a bus ride. It also seems that his actions were most ...
IDEA clarrification of my rights as a parent	10/12/2008
Q: My son has had an IEP since he was 2.5 years old. He has recently made the transition to ... A: Heather, You are correct: the law gives you the right to observe your son in school. You have to ...
IEP home school	10/8/2008
Q: My son is in 4th grade in Arizona and has been involved in the spec ed process since kinder. He has ... A: Kathy, You can withdraw your son from school to home school him at any time. You are required to ...
Mediation agreement	10/7/2008
Q: Upon a mediation agreement I was awarded a one to one aide for lunch supervision for my son. He is ... A: Patricia, The law is pretty clear about the definition of a "1 to 1 aide." They are correct that ...
Where to turn?	10/2/2008
Q: I have an 8 year old daughter in SDC classes. She has learning delays and dyspraxia. My concern is ... A: Kristine, First, you need to have someone review the Neuro Psych Evaluation performed by the ...
consult	9/28/2008
Q: My son has an IEP in NYS. He is in an integrated kindergarten class, recieves P/T twice a week and ... A: Heather, The IEP process, which is not always followed, is to develop goals and objectives first. ...
autism	9/27/2008
Q: I have two childre that have varying degrees of adhd/pdd One chikd excels academically and the other ... A: Alaina, You should submit your request for assessments in writing. You should include all areas of ...
My son does not qualify for services, yet needs them.	9/27/2008
Q: My son who is five years old, was tested last April, and qualified for Occupational and Physical ... A: Kristine, If a school requires a medical diagnosis, they must pay for it. The school is supposed to ...
speech therapy for private school	9/26/2008
Q: isn't there a law that requires the 'home school' public school to provide speech/language therapy ... A: cfreeman, Public schools are required under federal law to seek out and identify children needing ...
timelines	9/25/2008
Q: Can you please clarify timelines for students who move from district to district within the state ... A: Kris, I am not very familiar with PA law, but I know federal law which supercedes any state laws. ...
Instructional Minutes	9/24/2008
Q: There are 360 instructional minutes per day and the child is receiving services through the ... A: Debbie Perkins, The IEP Team decides how each day is structured for each special education student. ...
Legality of an IEP	9/24/2008
Q: I am a Special Education teacher in Kentucky. I am wondering, which part of an IEP is not a legal ... A: Tai, I agree with your principal on this one. The IEP is a legally binding agreement so long as ...
Should I be concerned	9/23/2008
Q: I have a 6 yr old son in the Irish Public school system. He would be in the equivalent of grade 1 I ... A: Sharon, I really don't know about Irish education law. Here in the States, you would ask your ...
Home Instruction - Behavioral Issues - New York	9/20/2008
Q: My son (nine years old) was hospitalized for 10 days following a mental health arrest. He has ... A: Sharon, In most areas, home instruction consists of a teacher coming to your home once or twice a ...
Exiting from Special Education	9/18/2008
Q: I live in CT and am part of a group of parents with children in special ed. Recently several ... A: Susan, The decision to exit a child from special education (even to reduce the level of services) ...
IEP Timmg	9/18/2008
Q: I am considering writing a letter to have my child tested. Once I write the letter, is there a ... A: Barb, You need to write a letter to the school's principal stating that you want your child ...
Getting out of special ed	9/15/2008
Q: I will be as brief as possible. My daughter has been labeled as "special Ed" since middle school. ... A: Netta, First to correct a significant misconception: there is NO identification on diplomas saying ...
my daughter	9/2/2008
Q: My daughter has cerebral palsy,although the naked untrained eye you cannot tell. She has limited ... A: Cortnee Cornell, There are many different categories in which a child can qualify for special ...
Is this how an IEP meeting is supposed to be?	8/31/2008
Q: How is an IEP meeting supposed to be conducted? Is it where the team comes together and just read ... A: Kim, The key word is "team" in IEP Team Meeting, and you are part of this team. Going over a drat ...
my son	8/26/2008
Q: In brief my son is 15yrs old is ADHD has been or had IEP,504. What I can not understand is if they ... A: Mary, It makes no sense to try to make students that have yet to master their basic math facts try ...
Special Ed testing without parent's consent	8/24/2008
Q: My son was tested last week for special ed without my written consent, (we live in Alabma). ... A: Debbie, The school did make a big mistake and you can sue almost anyone for anything. But in some ...
Research-based methods	4/18/2008
Q: My son has high-functioning autism and is falling behind in reading. An expert recommended intensive ... A: Christine, Most case law says that the school district personnel are better equipped to select the ...
Aspergers	4/14/2008
Q: My twelve year old son has aspergers and his school doesn't seem to want to make any special ... A: Unfortunately your son's case is all to common because these kids do OK academically. For many ...
case manager	4/11/2008
Q: Tim,Can you tell me the job discription of a special education case manager?My son who is in the ... A: Ann, The case manager is supposed to oversee the special education services your son is receiving. ...
Special Education Eligibility	4/4/2008
Q: I have several related questions regarding Special Ed eligibility: 1. If discrepancies are present ... A: Kelly, Wide discrepancies indicate potential problem area. I always look at the subtest scores ...
504 plan for private school student	4/3/2008
Q: My son is a junior in a Catholic high school - my choice. He is dyslexic and has had a 504 plan ... A: Private schools, especially religious schools don't have to implement 504 Plans. You can work out ...
seizures and busing	3/31/2008
Q: My 9yr old son has seizures and ride a handicap bus. Iam required by doctors order to carry diastat ... A: Theresa, Your son's doctor should write a letter requiring that at school and on the bus there be ...
IEP team want our son in a more restrictive classroom	3/29/2008
Q: I am a parent of a 9 year old boy with a diagnosis of High functioning autism,sensory integration ... A: Maria, It is almost impossible for me the be able to answer your question about your son's placement ...
Test Interpretation/Anxiety	3/23/2008
Q: I was wondering if you could tell me the significance (if there is any) of a gap between the ... A: Ami, Some of us do better verbally and others learn best by reading. When you have a large ...
Public School services for private school kids	3/18/2008
Q: My children (private school students) have been receiving speech therapy at an Upland, CA public ... A: Melinda, School districts and LEAs are required to provide special education services to students ...
private Christian school and IEP	3/15/2008
Q: I plan to send my son to a private Christian school next year. Our LEA has informed me that they ... A: Molly, I don't know what law your LEA is reading, but it is not the federal law. The law says that ...
special ed substitutes	3/13/2008
Q: My child attends a small school in Texas. The special ed teacher is often absent. I complained and ... A: Some states require special ed credentialed teacher for substitutes and some do not. You can check ...
IEP question	3/9/2008
Q: My son has an IEP and is 3.5 years old in preschool's school readiness program -- he needs a ... A: Meg, You did not mention having a lawyer in your initial question. I encourage you to use the lawyer ...
IEP Evaluation	3/7/2008
Q: I have an almost 4 yr. old son whom is being evaluted for an IEP. We had an independent OT eval. ... A: Kellie, Based on what you stated, your son qualifies for OT services. The social/emotional area does ...
IEP question	3/7/2008
Q: My son has an IEP and is 3.5 years old in preschool's school readiness program -- he needs a ... A: Meg, When a parent requests in writing an evaluation of their child for areas of potential special ...
IEP for selective mutism	2/10/2008
Q: My 11 yr old son has social anxiety disorder (SAD) and selective mutism (SM). He is currently ... A: Lisa, I have found that some school districts don't understand the law regarding exiting a student ...
504 Accommodation	2/3/2008
Q: I work with disabled students at a community college in California. Several students have the ... A: Lisa, I think it is wrong, but the legalities are questionable. My suggestion is to have the 504 ...
special education	2/1/2008
Q: I have a daughter who is in special education and is in fifth grade.This is her first year and she ... A: Anna, It can be very difficult to get disability for a child. My clients often have to file for ...
IEP Public / Private school help CA	1/24/2008
Q: "Hello, This year I moved my 6th grade girl to a private Catholic school (home parish) in CA. Other ... A: Sahar, It sounds to me that your son should continue to receive speech and language services for his ...
Transferring a 504 plan to a new school	1/24/2008
Q: My 13 year old son has an existing 504 plan for ODD. I recently moved to another school district ... A: Robert, You need to contact your new school district's person in charge of 504 Plans and request in ...
504 plan	1/3/2008
Q: I am the mother of a gifted LD daughter who is in the fifth grade. She is doing well academically ... A: Meg, Your daughter could receive benefit from the right resources program -- one designed to help ...
Child does not qualify for sp.ed	12/17/2007
Q: Runner: First of all, thank you for your time and information. You are providing a wonderful ... A: Diana, Keep up the good work. It is very challenging and time consuming to help special needs kids ...
Child does not qualify for sp.ed	12/16/2007
Q: Runner: First of all, thank you for your time and information. You are providing a wonderful ... A: Diana, It sounds to me that you are doing the right things for your son in spite of your local ...
intellectually disabled adults	11/27/2007
Q: What skills do these intellectually disabled adults need to work on? and what can help them to ... A: The special education system is designed to first identify students that may need help because of ...
Incomplete/inaccurate IEP	11/16/2007
Q: I have a 7 year old son who was born with a birth defect that has caused problems with gross and ... A: Connnie, I assume that your son's school performed an APE assessments before placing him on "watch ...
Please help the weary parents	11/10/2007
Q: My daughter, 6, is in grade one. I have always thought she was a special child but she completely ... A: Melanie, There could be many reasons why your daughter likes to be silly. It could be ADD/ADHD or it ...
What accommodations can my child receive?	11/7/2007
Q: My 14 y/o son has Asperger's, ADHD, ODD, social anxiety disorder, depression, and tic disorder. ... A: Tanya, I have represented a number of clients with similar challenges to what your son has. It is ...
Placement	11/5/2007
Q: I have a child in a Life Skills class. I am completely dis-satisfied with the way the program is ... A: Cyndi, Placement is difficult to fight in special education. I assume that you agree that your child ...
Child with selective mustism and social anxiety disorder needing accomodations and services	10/28/2007
Q: My son who is 6 years old and in the first grade has selective mutism and social anxiety disorder. ... A: Ed, You have done your homework. This is what I do for my clients: make sure the school district ...
Teacher pushing back on 504 plan	10/22/2007
Q: My son attends school at a private Christian school in CA. He was diagnosed with Dyslexia by a ... A: Katherine, The public schools are required under the law to provide the special education services ...
13 months and speech development	10/20/2007
Q: I work in early intervention and work with a little boy who is 13 months with gross motor issues. ... A: Jen, Usually at this boy's age children are babbling and imitating some sounds. I think the boy ...
Dismissal	10/19/2007
Q: If after the IEP Team reviews a reevaluation and decides that the student continues to need services ... A: Jean, You are correct. Just meeting goals and objectives does not justify exiting a student from ...
Dismissal	10/18/2007
Q: If after the IEP Team reviews a reevaluation and decides that the student continues to need services ... A: Jean, The law requires that a student be exited from special education only after achieving his ...
16 yr. old son	10/13/2007
Q: My son has an I.E.P, learning disability, superior I.Q., ADD, and is now truant from school because ... A: Kathy, My heart goes out to you. Since you son seems to have an addiction to drugs, his school can ...
A question about special ed student with access to above grade level curriculum	10/12/2007
Q: Tim, I have a 6-year-old son with asd diagnosis. He is currently in Kindergarten. Due to a 4-5 ... A: June, Your son's school is wrong. The entire concept of special education is to develop an IEP that ...
least restrictive environment	10/1/2007
Q: My question is: Does my son have to remain on a high school setting because of his age, 16. If for ... A: I am not very familiar with Texas education law, but in many states, there is a complaint procedure ...
Special Education; Writing a Reevaluation Report	9/29/2007
Q: I have a student who just came to me that I would like to dismiss from special education. Her ... A: Maryann, The law requires that a student be assessed before being discharged from special education. ...
speech therapy and IEP	9/12/2007
Q: My son, now age 3.5 has been receiving speech therapy for expressive delay since age 20 months. He ... A: Joanne, It sounds to me like your district is not treating you well. You should definitely call for ...
Help for 3rd grade son falling behind	9/7/2007
Q: My son is 8 and in 3rd grade. He attends a charter virtual online school in WI. I do all the ... A: Michelle, It sounds to me like you are getting the run around. As a parent you can request an ...
sped placement question	9/6/2007
Q: Our county has two self contained MOID (moderate intellectual disability) classrooms - one of them ... A: Nicole, You are correct that a parent can't demand a specific teacher, but you can challenge the ...
IEP	8/25/2007
Q: MY SON WHO IS 5 JUST STARTED KINDERGARTEN THIS YEAR ON 8-10-07. THE SCHOOL SENT ME A LETTER STATING ... A: I disagree with your concern about your son being "being labeled as a Special Education child." All ...
cannot answer this....can you?	8/21/2007
Q: Tim, I got this question from someone and I am unable to answer it as it is too legally based for ... A: This series of questions need to be addressed by a lawyer that practices in both Federal and State ...
Expulsion/Placement/Setting/Location	8/11/2007
Q: Sir, We are in a dilemma concerning the expulsion of our 12 year old son with an IEP. He made a ... A: You are right! The school district needs to crack the law books and case law. The IEP Team ...
classroom environment	7/12/2007
Q: Legally what size must a classroom be before it is considered an instructional room for special ... A: There is no set size for special education classes. It is up to the school district to determine ...
classroom environment	7/12/2007
Q: Legally what size must a classroom be before it is considered an instructional room for special ... A: There is no provision of the federal law governing class size for special education classes. Some ...
ADD	6/22/2007
Q: Tim, what careers or jobs can young people with ADD pursue and have success? Any particular ... A: I know many successful people have ADD (I have a mild case). The founder of Jet Blue has serious ADD ...

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Tim Runner

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Questions concerning special education: IEP, assessments, Due Process, mediation, resolution conference, federal law, state law, qualifying for services, residential treatment, special day classes, resource specialists, procedures, having your child assessed, adaptive PE, speech & language, non-public school, FAPE, and tuition reimbursement.

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I have been an education advocate representing students and parents for six years. My experience includes: representing my clients in IEPs, SSTs, Due Process, review assessment results for my clients, and mediations. I have represented clients with learning disabilities, autism, Downs Syndrome, cognitively challenged, emotional problems, learning disabilities, ADD/ADHD, and physical disabilities. I have also represented clients to County Mental Health Departments and Regional Centers. My clients range from pre-school to college students in many states.

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I have a degree in Mathematics from the University of California with minors in Psychology and Physics. I also studied applied statistics in psychology at the graduate level. I have taught college classes, conducted seminars, written articles for various publications, and testified as an expert witness.

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