Latest News & Resources:

Warning Signs that a Child is Being Bullied

Learn the warning signs that may indicate that your child has been the victim of bullying and what to do if you think your child is being bullied. Find out who to talk to and what actions you can take to ensure your child’s safety. …

Transportation and Special Education Students

What legal rights do students have?
By Diane Wiscarson, Attorney at Law

School transportation is frequently a source of confusion, and even frustration, for students with Individual Education Programs (IEPs) and their families. When does the district have to provide transportation? Who decides how and when transportation occurs? Is transportation on my child’s IEP? How do I know what my rights are for my child’s transportation? Can my child have an aide on the bus? These are a few questions that come up every year before school starts, and for summer services. …

You Finally Received the Waiver, Now What?! Information for New Enrollees

The Maryland Autism Waiver is a home and community-based services (Medicaid) waiver for children with autism spectrum disorder. This presentation will help newly enrolled families understand what they can and should expect from the autism waiver.  …

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, …