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Stress-Free IEP® with Frances Shefter, Episode 81 Introduction: In this episode, Frances Shefter welcomes Randi Johnson, Principal Attorney and Chief Engagement Officer at Gravis Law. Together, they discuss the unique challenges and responsibilities of being education attorneys and how their collaborative approach helps families navigate the special education process. The Role of Attorneys vs. Advocates: Randi and Frances discuss the differences between attorneys and advocates in special education cases. In states like Maryland, only attorneys can represent families in due process hearings, while states like Virginia and Washington allow advocates. They emphasize that due process hearings are legal procedures and advocates’ lack of legal expertise can lead to mistakes during the hearing that cannot be corrected on appeal. Understanding Due Process: The conversation highlights the complex and risky nature of due process hearings. Frances and Randi discuss the extensive preparation required, such as gathering evidence, preparing witnesses, and adhering to procedural rules. They emphasize the importance of experienced legal representation to avoid costly mistakes that could put a case in danger. Making Sense of IDEA and Case Law: Frances and Randi dive into how the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) is shaped by case law and the courts’ interpretation of terms like "denial of FAPE" (Free Appropriate Public Education). They explain the importance of addressing both procedural and substantive violations and how this knowledge is very important in presenting a strong case. Transition Planning and SSI Benefits: The discussion shifts to the role that transition planning (starting at age 14) plays in preparing students for adulthood. Randi explains how detailed documentation in IEPs can influence a child's ability to access adult resources, including Supplemental Security Income (SSI). She emphasizes the importance of clearly outlining a child’s needs in the present levels on their IEP and being specific about the accommodations and supplementary aids and services that they receive to avoid gaps in services after high school. The Power of Clear Present Levels: Both Frances and Randi stress that well-written present levels of performance are the basis of an effective IEP. They advocate for specifying the supports a child needs, as well as distinguishing between tasks they can perform independently and those that require adult assistance. This level of detail helps ensure the IEP is actionable and accurately reflects the child’s abilities. Supporting Teachers in the Process: The conversation highlights the importance of equipping teachers with the resources needed to implement IEPs successfully. Frances and Randi share strategies for advocating for additional classroom support during meetings and emphasize the collaborative nature of these discussions to benefit both students and educators. Balancing Pull-Out Services and Classroom Time: The two attorneys address a common challenge: scheduling pull-out services without disrupting critical classroom activities or social opportunities. They discuss the need to balance academic goals with the broader developmental and social needs of the student. Conclusion: Frances and Randi close by emphasizing the critical role of education attorneys in ensuring IEPs are well-written, actionable, and beneficial to the student. They highlight the importance of teamwork between parents, educators, and legal professionals in creating meaningful plans that support a child’s education and long-term success. This episode serves as a valuable resource for families looking to navigate the complexities of special education with confidence and clarity. Learn more about Randi Johnson: * Connect with Randi on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/randi-l-johnson * Email: rjohnson@gravislaw.com * Check out Gravis Law’s podcast, “Law Uncomplicated:” https://open.spotify.com/show/1z6aDwDfwCDnLzyMMNIVOx?si=4132beda39a54be0 *********************************** 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®: * On website: https://shefterlaw.com/blog * On YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCff0foIeCETrWbtsQSDwckQ Connect and learn more from your host, Frances Shefter: * https://shefterlaw.com/#contact-me * https://shefterlaw.com * https://www.linkedin.com/in/francesshefter * https://www.facebook.com/ShefterLawPA * https://twitter.com/shefterlawpa * https://www.instagram.com/shefterlawpa * https://www.tiktok.com/@shefterlawpa
Overcoming the Challenges Faced by Education Lawyers with Randi Johnson
How to support the WHOLE child with Elyse Dworin of Elevated Learning Solutions, an educational support group that incorporates metacognition, executive functioning support, and wellness (physical and social-emotional) support rather than just plugging academic gaps.
Stress-Free IEP with Elyse Dworin
Stress-Free IEP® with Frances Shefter, Episode 82 In this episode of Stress-Free IEP®, Frances Shefter speaks with Michela Laverty, a seasoned special education consultant and the founder of Oly Able Special Education Consulting, based in Denver, CO. With a background in implementing inclusive practices and building successful programs for students with learning and intellectual disabilities, Michela is passionate about supporting educators through professional development, coaching, and advocating for high-quality resources in special education. She’s here to share her insights on how she was able to write and develop IEPs without giving up too much of herself along the way. Episode Summary: Introduction: Frances Shefter welcomes Michela Laverty, founder of Oly Able Special Education Consulting, to talk about her experiences as a seasoned special education consultant. Michela shares her journey from the classroom to consulting, pointing out the importance of creating systems that support educators, students, and families in special education. Challenges in Special Education: Michela talks about her early days as a high school self-contained teacher, when she encountered the intimidating task of creating curriculum and systems without clear guidance. She highlights the lack of support and resources for special educators and the need to reimagine how special education is approached to effectively meet students' diverse needs. Implementing Inclusive Practices: Through trial and error, Michela worked to integrate her self-contained students into general education settings. She emphasizes the importance of collaboration with other teachers, building inclusive environments, and tailoring curriculum to meet students' functional and academic needs. Michela also speaks to the critical role of professional development and teacher empowerment in creating sustainable change. Streamlining the IEP Process: One of Michela's key contributions is developing IEP templates and systems to simplify the process for teachers. She explains her structured approach to writing present levels, setting goals, and addressing supplementary aids and services in a cohesive manner. Michela shares how these systems save time and reduce stress for educators, enabling them to focus more on teaching and less on paperwork. Collaborating with Families and Staff: Michela highlights the importance of building strong communication systems with both families and school teams. She describes her proactive strategies for engaging parents early, fostering meaningful collaboration, and ensuring that all team members are aligned in supporting students' needs. By creating clear and consistent communication channels, Michela helps bridge the gap between home and school. Transition Planning and Present Levels: The episode delves into the often-overlooked importance of transition planning and well-written present levels in the IEP process. Michela emphasizes that present levels should provide a full picture of the child, outlining their strengths, weaknesses, and the support needed to succeed. She also discusses how transition planning should be individualized to help students prepare for adulthood, whether that involves further education, employment, or independent living. Supporting Teachers Through Professional Development: Michela describes the professional development services offered by Oly Able Special Education Consulting, including webinars, in-person training, and classroom coaching. Read the entire episode summary: https://shefterlaw.com/2024/12/inclusive-practices-in-special-education-with-michela-laverty-of-oly-able-special-education-consulting/ Learn more about Michela Laverty: * Connect with Michela on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lavermic * Follow Oly Able Special Education Consulting on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/oly-able * Visit Oly Able Special Education Consulting’s website: https://www.olyable.com * Follow Michela on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lifeskillswithlaverty * Follow Oly Able Special Education Consulting on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/olyable *********************************** 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®: * On website: https://shefterlaw.com/blog * On YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCff0foIeCETrWbtsQSDwckQ Connect and learn more from your host, Frances Shefter: * https://shefterlaw.com/#contact-me * https://shefterlaw.com * https://www.linkedin.com/in/francesshefter * https://www.facebook.com/ShefterLawPA * https://twitter.com/shefterlawpa * https://www.instagram.com/shefterlawpa * https://www.tiktok.com/@shefterlawpa
Inclusive Practices in Special Education with Michela Laverty
Frances talks servant leadership and transition to adult benefits with Randi Johnson, Principal Attorney and Chief Engagement Officer at Gravis Law, LLC in Spokane, WA
Stress-Free IEP with Randi Johnson
Stress-Free IEP® with Frances Shefter, Episode 80 In this episode of Stress-Free IEP®, Frances Shefter speaks with Dr. Jaclyn Halpern, Partner & Clinical Director of Psychology at Playful Therapy Connections, an organization that specializes in supporting neurodivergent children, teens, adults & families with a focus on anxiety, depression, & navigating a neurotypical-world while being Autistic and/or an ADHD’r as well as related parenting support. Episode summary: Introduction Host Frances Shefter welcomes Dr. Jaclyn Halpern, a partner and clinical director of psychology at Playful Therapy Connections (https://playfultherapy.net). Dr. Halpern explains her practice’s neurodiversity-affirming approach, which serves clients of all ages through therapy, testing, and parenting support. Her focus is on meeting individuals where they are, recognizing their unique strengths, and addressing challenges within the environment rather than seeing disability as an inherent problem. Understanding Neurodiversity and Affirming Practices Dr. Halpern defines neurodiversity as the natural variation in how human brains function, with neurotypical and neurodivergent profiles equally valid. She explains the social model of disability, emphasizing that challenges often arise from a mismatch between a person’s needs and the environment, not from the individual. A neurodiversity-affirming approach focuses on adapting the environment, fostering strengths, and presuming competence, rather than trying to make neurodivergent individuals conform to neurotypical norms. Therapy for Neurodiverse Clients Therapy at Playful Therapy Connections is client-centered and non-directive, focusing on the individual’s unique needs and comfort. Building rapport is a priority, with therapy sessions often involving special interests, play, or sensory-friendly tools to create a safe and validating space. Dr. Halpern explains how therapy supports unmasking, allowing clients to be their authentic selves and unlearn harmful societal messages. Sessions adapt to each client, whether that means typing instead of talking, using AAC devices, or turning off cameras during virtual therapy. For children, therapy may involve helping them find coping strategies, but always within the context of affirming who they are rather than pressuring them to conform. Accommodations and Support in Schools Dr. Halpern discusses how schools can better support neurodiverse students through accommodations like flexible seating, sensory tools, and movement breaks. She highlights the importance of prioritizing emotional regulation to enable learning and warns against compliance-based systems like behavior charts or reward systems that can cause shame and reduce motivation. IEPs should be strengths-based, focusing on goals like self-advocacy and using coping strategies. These strategies should be taught and practiced before moments of dysregulation, as students cannot access them during heightened emotional states. She emphasizes shifting away from deficit-focused language in IEPs and behavior plans, instead framing differences as vulnerabilities to support. Testing for Neurodiverse Individuals Neurodiversity-affirming testing involves interpreting standardized measures through an affirming lens and focusing on strengths rather than deficits. Reports use positive language, avoiding terms like “disordered” or “impaired.” Dr. Halpern explains how testing also considers observations, uncovering needs related to attention, sensory processing, and communication. For individuals with higher support needs or nonverbal children, testing focuses on identifying their strengths and needs, even if full ability levels aren’t measurable. Caregiver Tips for Supporting Neurodiverse Kids Dr. Halpern shares advice for caregivers, emphasizing the importance of creating a low-demand, safe environment at home where children can decompress and engage in special interests. She encourages prioritizing connection through regular one-on-one time and collaboration in setting expectations. Read the full summary at https://shefterlaw.com/2024/12/affirming-support-for-the-neurodivergent-community-with-dr-jaclyn-halpern/ Learn more about Dr. Jaclyn Halpern: * Visit Playful Therapy Connections’ website: https://playfultherapy.net * Connect with Dr. Halpern on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jaclyn-halpern-psyd-84a84017 * Follow Playful Therapy Connections on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/playful-therapy-connections *************************** 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®: * On website: https://shefterlaw.com/blog * On YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCff0foIeCETrWbtsQSDwckQ
Affirming Support for the Neurodivergent Community with Dr. Jaclyn Halpern
Stress-Free IEP® with Frances Shefter, Episode 79 In this episode of Stress-Free IEP ®, Frances Shefter speaks with Diane Gould, Founder & Executive Director of PDA North America. PDA North America provides support and resources for individuals, families, and professionals living with Pathological Demand Avoidance. Episode Summary: Introduction Host Frances Shefter welcomes Diane Gould, a licensed clinical social worker and Executive Director of PDA North America (https://pdanorthamerica.org). Diane specializes in supporting autistic individuals, particularly those with Pathological Demand Avoidance (PDA), which she prefers to frame as Persistent Drive for Autonomy. Diane discusses her work with families, her annual PDA-focused conference, and her book Navigating PDA in America. This episode delves into understanding PDA, addressing school challenges, and providing strategies to support PDA individuals. Understanding PDA: Pathological Demand Avoidance Pathological Demand Avoidance refers to a profile of autism characterized by a heightened need for autonomy and an instinctive avoidance of perceived demands. These individuals often show high creativity, imaginative thinking, and a tendency to mask their struggles through social strategies, making their needs less visible. Diane explains that PDA students can present very differently in various environments, often holding it together at school but falling apart at home. This masking can lead to misunderstandings, with schools attributing the struggles to parenting issues rather than recognizing the underlying challenges. PDA individuals frequently face misconceptions, such as being labeled as non-autistic due to having traits like social motivation or eye contact. Challenges Faced by PDA Students in Schools One of the biggest issues PDA students encounter in schools is the lack of recognition of how emotional regulation impacts learning. Diane highlights that students under constant stress or masking are not truly absorbing lessons, as their energy is consumed by trying to fit in and conform. Traditional school systems, with rigid schedules and attendance policies, often fail to accommodate these students’ needs. This rigidity can lead to severe emotional distress and eventual refusal or inability to attend school. Diane stresses that these issues are not about students being unwilling to attend but rather about the environment not meeting their needs, making it unsafe for them. Supporting PDA Students in Schools Diane emphasizes that effective support for PDA students begins with fostering trust and focusing on co-regulation. She explains that a safe, emotionally regulated environment is essential for any learning to occur. Flexibility in attendance and accommodations, such as allowing students to take breaks or leave when overwhelmed, can make a significant difference. However, Diane acknowledges the challenges in convincing schools to adopt such measures due to systemic rigidity. She advises parents to work collaboratively with schools, focusing on pragmatic solutions like partial attendance as a step toward creating a more supportive environment. Read the entire summary on https://shefterlaw.com/stress-free-iep-show/ Learn more about Diane Gould: * Connect with Diane on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/diane-gould-a607b5251 * Follow PDA North America on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/pda-north-america * Visit PDA North America’s website: https://pdanorthamerica.org/team * Follow PDA North America on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pdanorthamerica * Consider attending The 6th Annual PDA North America Conference happening on March 5, 6, & 7th, 2025. Early bird prices are available until Dec 31, 2024: https://pdanorthamerica.org/conference * Learn about other upcoming events on all topics related to supporting PDA people: https://pdanorthamerica.org/events * Check out Diane’s book, “Navigating PDA in America:” https://tinyurl.com/5fmz72zb *********************************** 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®: * On website: https://shefterlaw.com/blog * On YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCff0foIeCETrWbtsQSDwckQ Connect and learn more from your host, Frances Shefter: * https://shefterlaw.com/#contact-me * https://shefterlaw.com * https://www.linkedin.com/in/francesshefter * https://www.facebook.com/ShefterLawPA * https://twitter.com/shefterlawpa * https://www.instagram.com/shefterlawpa * https://www.tiktok.com/@shefterlawpa
Resources & Support for All with Pathological Demand Avoidance with Diane Gould
Have you ever been to an IEP eligibility meeting where you’re reviewing an independent evaluation? If so, you know it can be overwhelming to ensure the school takes your report seriously. This video breaks down what parents need to know to navigate these meetings effectively. 💼 💡 One key tip? Ask the psychologist if they accept the report as valid. With that validation, you have a solid foundation, even if they don’t agree with every recommendation. Let’s work together to ensure your independent evaluation is taken seriously! #ShefterLawPA #STRESSFREEIEP #Specialeducationlaw #Womaninlaw   You do not need to do it all alone!    💠Get In Touch With Us:  🔹️Website: https://shefterlaw.com/  🔹️Email: info@shefterlaw.com  🔹️Office: 301-605-7303  🔹️Linktree: https://linktr.ee/shefterlawpa?utm_source=linktree_profile_share
Independent Evaluations: What Parents Need to Know for IEP Meetings
Timely evaluations are essential to educationally plan and develop and an appropriate IEP for your child. Current evaluations are even more important if you’re considering a change in placement. Federal law requires schools to consider doing evaluations every three years, but there is no requirement to actually complete any.   💡 For best results, request academic evaluations at least every two years—preferably annually. Having up-to-date data helps avoid delays and ensures your child receives the support they need without wasting critical time. Check your child's IEP today to make sure evaluations are current! #ShefterLawPA #STRESSFREEIEP #Specialeducationlaw #Womaninlaw   You do not need to do it all alone!    💠Get In Touch With Us:  🔹️Website: https://shefterlaw.com/  🔹️Email: info@shefterlaw.com  🔹️Office: 301-605-7303  🔹️Linktree: https://linktr.ee/shefterlawpa?utm_source=linktree_profile_share
Don’t Delay Your Child’s Education—The Importance of Regular Evaluations!
Stress-Free IEP® with Frances Shefter, Episode 78 In this episode of Stress-Free IEP®, Frances Shefter speaks with Robin Brannan, a Licensed Clinical Marriage and Family Therapist with 20+ years experience supporting neurodivergent families. Her practice, Better Together Family Therapy, specializes in neurodiversity affirming and LGBTQIA+ affirming therapy for adults, children, teens and families. She and her team of seasoned clinicians serve families online throughout Maryland and in person in their Kensington office. Robin is also a proud parent of 2 neurospicy teens. Episode Summary: Introduction: Frances Shefter hosts licensed clinical marriage and family therapist Robin Brannan, who has over 20 years of experience supporting neurodivergent families. Robin leads Better Together Family Therapy (https://betterfamilytherapy.com), a practice in Maryland that provides neurodiversity-affirming and LGBTQIA+ supportive therapy for families, adults, children, and teens. The Importance of Couple and Family Therapy: Robin emphasizes the importance of a strong couple system for family well-being, suggesting that parents begin with couple or co-parenting therapy to create a unified approach. She also highlights that while individual therapy is valuable, it’s crucial to choose a therapist trained to look at family systems, as some therapists may unintentionally influence clients to consider leaving relationships. Supporting Nonverbal Children and Communication Challenges: Robin discusses the challenge of supporting nonverbal or minimally verbal children, stressing that as parents, we often rely heavily on reading nonverbal cues. She explains the difficulty parents face when systems misinterpret a lack of verbal communication as a lack of cognitive ability, which is a common frustration for parents of neurodivergent children. Parental Self-Care and Balance: Robin discusses the necessity of self-care for parents to maintain a healthy boundary between their experiences and those of their children. She suggests practical strategies such as setting up a “Parent IEP” that includes taking extended time for themselves, reducing workloads, and focusing on their own mental health. This approach, she explains, ultimately benefits children by allowing parents to remain calm and present. Parenting Challenges and Adjustments in Goals: Robin and Frances discuss the balance between supporting children’s mental health and managing school demands. They stress that focusing on mental well-being and manageable expectations is key, especially in an educational system that may not always accommodate neurodivergent needs effectively. Frances shares how she prioritizes her children’s mental health over strict academic requirements, even when this means adjusting or opting out of certain assignments. Self-Care Tips and Strategies for Parents: Robin introduces the concept of “thrillers, chillers, and fillers” to help parents categorize self-care activities that energize, calm, or simply entertain. She encourages parents to use waiting room time for self-care and to set boundaries with technology, such as limiting access to emails outside work hours to reduce stress. Navigating Co-Parenting and Compromise: Robin advises co-parents to listen to each other’s priorities and to yield when something is particularly important to one partner. She highlights the importance of open communication and compromise, especially for parents with differing views on parenting approaches and therapy. Conclusion: This episode underscores the importance of intentional self-care and co-parenting strategies to better support children. Robin’s insights encourage parents to balance their children’s needs with their own, allowing them to parent effectively while maintaining their well-being. Learn more about Robin Brannan: * Connect with Robin on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/robin-brannan-4ab29441 * Follow Better Together Family Therapy on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/better-together-family-therapy * Subscribe Better Together Family Therapy‘s YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@bettertogetherfamilytherap7449 * Visit Better Together Family Therapy’s website: https://betterfamilytherapy.com * Follow Better Together Family Therapy on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BetterFamilyTherapy * Workshops and Groups for Parents of Anxious Kids https://betterfamilytherapy.com/blog/space-groups * Back to School Booster Group for Neurodivergent Kids https://betterfamilytherapy.com *********************************** 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 episode, 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®: * On website: https://shefterlaw.com/blog
Neurodiversity- & LGBTQIA+-Affirming Therapy with Robin Brannan of Better Together Family Therapy
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