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Special Education Mediation Fosters Conflict Resolution
Mediations can avoid involving the legal system in disputes
By Ann Logsdon
Special education mediations take place when parents and schools disagree on special education programs for students with learning disabilities. Because reaching a resolution can be difficult when such conflicts arise, mediation often follows. …
How Does a 504 Plan Differ From an IEP?
By Terri Mauro
Both a 504 plan and an Individualized Education Plan (IEP) involve special education accommodations, but do you know how these two plans differ from each other? Learn the differences and similarities between the two with this review of how a 504 plan lines up with an IEP. …
Facilitated IEP Team Meetings in Maryland
Frequently Asked Questions for Parents and Public Agency/School Personnel
Maryland State Department of Education
Having IEP team meetings facilitated by an independent, trained “facilitator” is rapidly becoming a popular means for parents and school personnel to reach agreement in the educational decision making process for students needing or suspected of needing special education services. When the relationship between parents and school personnel become strained or better yet, before the relationship has the opportunity to fray, …
Common Acronyms and Terms Used During IFSP and IEP Meetings
Maryland Learning Links
IFSP and IEP acronyms and terms are defined here. If you don’t understand something that’s said in your student’s meeting, ask. You are your student’s best advocate.
Common Acronyms and Terms Used During IFSP and IEP Meetings Handout
School Discipline: The Rights of Students With IEPs and 504 Plans
By Andrew M.I. Lee, J.D.
Some kids have learning and attention issues that cause them to misbehave. If they have an IEP or a 504 plan, what happens if they break a school rule? Can they be disciplined? And if so, how? …
Strengths-Based IEPs
Understood
Imagine an Individualized Education Program (IEP) that focuses as much on your child’s strengths as it does on your child’s weaknesses. Unfortunately, that’s not the norm for most students yet.
In a typical IEP meeting, not much time is given to looking at a child’s strengths. Strengths are covered at the beginning of the meeting, and the rest of the time is focused on deficits. …