In this heartwarming and insightful episode of Stress-Free IEP®, host Frances Shefter reconnects with longtime colleague and friend, Dr. Miranda Montoya. As a seasoned special education administrator and the founder of Connective Minds, Dr. Montoya brings a wealth of experience and wisdom to the conversation. Together, they explore the importance of teamwork, family collaboration, and empowering students within the IEP process and beyond.
A Friendship Rooted in Teamwork
Frances opens the episode by sharing a nostalgic memory of working alongside Miranda decades ago on a D.C. case that left a lasting impression. What stood out then—and still resonates now—was the emphasis on collaboration over conflict. As Frances recalls, “We don’t have to be adversarial—it’s about the kid.” That philosophy became a shared foundation for both women and continues to influence their work today.
Dr. Montoya echoes this sentiment, emphasizing that all parties involved in special education—school staff, families, advocates, and attorneys—are partners. “That’s how this works the best way it can,” she says. Whether you’re in the school building or supporting from the community, it’s all about teaming up for the child.
Connective Minds: A New Chapter
Now based in Columbus, Ohio, Dr. Montoya continues her work as a special education administrator while running Connective Minds, her consulting and publishing company. One of her proudest recent achievements is publishing a children’s book, Petina Moves Again. The story follows a young chipmunk navigating the emotional journey of relocating—an experience familiar to many neurodiverse children who struggle with change.
The book features Mrs. Elephant, a kind teacher who helps Petina feel a sense of belonging. The story ultimately comes full circle when Petina grows up to become a teacher herself. As Miranda explains, the book is designed to help children see themselves in stories and feel validated in their experiences. It’s particularly helpful for kids who thrive on routine and may find transitions especially challenging.
Helping Children Through Change
Both Frances and Miranda discuss the power of preparation in reducing anxiety and behavioral challenges. Whether it’s a social story to explain a big move or a preview of what to expect before an event, giving children tools to understand upcoming changes can make a huge difference.
Frances shares her own experience with her daughter, who has anxiety. Advanced prep often transforms a stressful situation into an exciting one. “If they’re more prepared, there’s gonna be less behaviors,” Frances notes—a sentiment Miranda wholeheartedly agrees with.
Empowering Parents at the IEP Table
Shifting gears, Frances invites Miranda to share advice for parents heading into IEP meetings. Dr. Montoya’s number one message? Parents are the experts on their children.
“When we listen to parents, we can create a more personalized and effective support plan,” she says. She encourages families to speak up, not just during meetings but throughout the year. Little things—like a missed breakfast or poor night’s sleep—can greatly affect a child’s day. Keeping open lines of communication helps educators support students holistically.
Frances adds that emotional well-being should be prioritized alongside academics: “The academics are going to come, but I want my kids to be strong, independent adults.”
Student Voice and Self-Advocacy
Dr. Montoya advocates for involving children in IEP meetings as early as third grade, even if only for a portion of the meeting. When kids identify their own strengths and areas of growth, it boosts motivation and builds essential self-advocacy skills.
Frances highlights a common pitfall in IEP writing: vague goals like “the student will advocate for themselves.” Without adult support and scaffolding, those goals can fall flat. Both women emphasize the importance of teaching kids when and how to ask for help, and ensuring they understand the accommodations they’re entitled to.
More Than a Meeting: A Collaborative Process
The discussion wraps up with practical advice on making IEP meetings more efficient and meaningful. Frances and Miranda agree that true collaboration requires preparation and transparency. Parents should feel empowered to ask questions, clarify vague language, and request follow-up meetings when necessary—especially for crucial topics like placement.
They also stress the importance of generalization—making sure skills learned in speech, OT, or PT carry over to real-world settings. “We shouldn’t have two systems for kids,” Miranda says. Consistency across home and school is key, and both educators and parents can learn from each other’s strategies.
Resources and Staying Connected
For parents and educators interested in Miranda’s book Petina Moves Again, or in learning more about her work, visit www.connectivemindsbooks.com. The site also offers a plush version of Petina, designed to comfort children during transitions.
Final Thoughts: It Takes a Team
Frances closes the episode by circling back to the central theme: collaboration. Whether you’re a parent, teacher, therapist, or advocate, we’re all on the same team—and the student is at the center. Dr. Montoya leaves listeners with a reminder that no one piece of the puzzle can stand alone. Together, we create the complete picture needed to support each child’s journey.
Stay tuned for more episodes of Stress-Free IEP®, where you’ll find guidance, empathy, and expert insight to help you navigate the IEP process with confidence and care.
Frances Shefter is an Education Attorney and Advocate who is committed to helping her clients have a Stress-Free IEP® experience. In each podcast, Frances interviews inspiring people to share information, educate you, empower you and help you get the knowledge you need.
Championing Equity in Education with Dr. Miranda Montoya
Stress-Free IEP® with Frances Shefter, Episode 92
In this heartwarming and insightful episode of Stress-Free IEP®, host Frances Shefter reconnects with longtime colleague and friend, Dr. Miranda Montoya. As a seasoned special education administrator and the founder of Connective Minds, Dr. Montoya brings a wealth of experience and wisdom to the conversation. Together, they explore the importance of teamwork, family collaboration, and empowering students within the IEP process and beyond.
A Friendship Rooted in Teamwork
Frances opens the episode by sharing a nostalgic memory of working alongside Miranda decades ago on a D.C. case that left a lasting impression. What stood out then—and still resonates now—was the emphasis on collaboration over conflict. As Frances recalls, “We don’t have to be adversarial—it’s about the kid.” That philosophy became a shared foundation for both women and continues to influence their work today.
Dr. Montoya echoes this sentiment, emphasizing that all parties involved in special education—school staff, families, advocates, and attorneys—are partners. “That’s how this works the best way it can,” she says. Whether you’re in the school building or supporting from the community, it’s all about teaming up for the child.
Connective Minds: A New Chapter
Now based in Columbus, Ohio, Dr. Montoya continues her work as a special education administrator while running Connective Minds, her consulting and publishing company. One of her proudest recent achievements is publishing a children’s book, Petina Moves Again. The story follows a young chipmunk navigating the emotional journey of relocating—an experience familiar to many neurodiverse children who struggle with change.
The book features Mrs. Elephant, a kind teacher who helps Petina feel a sense of belonging. The story ultimately comes full circle when Petina grows up to become a teacher herself. As Miranda explains, the book is designed to help children see themselves in stories and feel validated in their experiences. It’s particularly helpful for kids who thrive on routine and may find transitions especially challenging.
Helping Children Through Change
Both Frances and Miranda discuss the power of preparation in reducing anxiety and behavioral challenges. Whether it’s a social story to explain a big move or a preview of what to expect before an event, giving children tools to understand upcoming changes can make a huge difference.
Frances shares her own experience with her daughter, who has anxiety. Advanced prep often transforms a stressful situation into an exciting one. “If they’re more prepared, there’s gonna be less behaviors,” Frances notes—a sentiment Miranda wholeheartedly agrees with.
Empowering Parents at the IEP Table
Shifting gears, Frances invites Miranda to share advice for parents heading into IEP meetings. Dr. Montoya’s number one message? Parents are the experts on their children.
“When we listen to parents, we can create a more personalized and effective support plan,” she says. She encourages families to speak up, not just during meetings but throughout the year. Little things—like a missed breakfast or poor night’s sleep—can greatly affect a child’s day. Keeping open lines of communication helps educators support students holistically.
Frances adds that emotional well-being should be prioritized alongside academics: “The academics are going to come, but I want my kids to be strong, independent adults.”
Student Voice and Self-Advocacy
Dr. Montoya advocates for involving children in IEP meetings as early as third grade, even if only for a portion of the meeting. When kids identify their own strengths and areas of growth, it boosts motivation and builds essential self-advocacy skills.
Frances highlights a common pitfall in IEP writing: vague goals like “the student will advocate for themselves.” Without adult support and scaffolding, those goals can fall flat. Both women emphasize the importance of teaching kids when and how to ask for help, and ensuring they understand the accommodations they’re entitled to.
More Than a Meeting: A Collaborative Process
The discussion wraps up with practical advice on making IEP meetings more efficient and meaningful. Frances and Miranda agree that true collaboration requires preparation and transparency. Parents should feel empowered to ask questions, clarify vague language, and request follow-up meetings when necessary—especially for crucial topics like placement.
They also stress the importance of generalization—making sure skills learned in speech, OT, or PT carry over to real-world settings. “We shouldn’t have two systems for kids,” Miranda says. Consistency across home and school is key, and both educators and parents can learn from each other’s strategies.
Resources and Staying Connected
For parents and educators interested in Miranda’s book Petina Moves Again, or in learning more about her work, visit www.connectivemindsbooks.com. The site also offers a plush version of Petina, designed to comfort children during transitions.
Final Thoughts: It Takes a Team
Frances closes the episode by circling back to the central theme: collaboration. Whether you’re a parent, teacher, therapist, or advocate, we’re all on the same team—and the student is at the center. Dr. Montoya leaves listeners with a reminder that no one piece of the puzzle can stand alone. Together, we create the complete picture needed to support each child’s journey.
Stay tuned for more episodes of Stress-Free IEP®, where you’ll find guidance, empathy, and expert insight to help you navigate the IEP process with confidence and care.
Learn more about Dr. Miranda Montoya:
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Stress-Free IEP®:
Frances Shefter is an Education Attorney and Advocate who is committed to helping her clients have a Stress-Free IEP® experience. In each podcast, Frances interviews inspiring people to share information, educate you, empower you and help you get the knowledge you need.
Watch more episodes of Stress-Free IEP®:
Connect and learn more from your host, Frances Shefter:
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