Advocacy: A Personal and Professional Perspective
March 19, 2026
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By: Frances Shefter, Esq. Advocacy is one of the most important tools a parent can have, especially when navigating
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WE BUILD YOUR DREAMS
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Why Re-Evaluations Matter More Than You Think
March 12, 2026
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By: Frances Shefter, Esq. Every three years, schools are required to hold what’s called a triennial re-evaluation planning meeting for students who receive special education
What to Do If Your Child’s School Denies a Special Education Evaluation
March 5, 2026
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By: Frances Shefter, Esq. Many parents come to me after they’ve raised concerns about their child at school and asked for a special
Why Present Levels (PLAAFP) Matter More Than You Think
February 19, 2026
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By: Frances Shefter, Esq. Present Levels of Academic Achievement and Functional Performance (PLAAFP), formerly known as Present Levels of Performance (PLOP),
Before a Child Is Removed from General Education: What Supports Schools Must Consider First
February 12, 2026
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(A follow-up to last week’s post on Least Restrictive Environment) By: Frances Shefter, Esq. Last week, I wrote about Least Restrictive Environment (LRE) — and
Least Restrictive Environment Isn’t a Placement. It’s the Law
February 5, 2026
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By: Frances Shefter, Esq. Parents hear the phrase *Least Restrictive Environment* (LRE) all the time in special education meetings. It sounds
When Weather Closures Are Decided Too Late, Working Parents of Neurodivergent Students Are Left in Limbo
January 29, 2026
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By Frances Shefter, Esq. When severe weather is predicted, families start preparing long before the first snowflake falls. Parents
Bullying, Neurodivergent Students, and FAPE: When Schools Fail to Keep Children Safe
January 22, 2026
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By: Frances Shefter, Esq. Wow. What a week. If you are a parent of a neurodivergent child, you already
🧠 Mental Health in Schools: Why Regulation Is More Important Than Academics in the School Day
January 15, 2026
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By: Frances Shefter, Esq. (and mom) As a mom of two neurodivergent children, I’ve learned to prioritize one thing above all else: mental health
Don’t Let the School Define Your Child’s Potential: IEPs, Expectations, and Big Dreams
January 8, 2026
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Don’t Let the School Define Your Child’s Potential: IEPs, Expectations, and Big Dreams By: Frances Shefter, Esq. What Do You Really
