Special Ed on Special Ed

26/01/2024

Here it is, your Moment of Zen

24/01/2024

Are you ready for the biggest event of the year? 🎉

📆45 days away!

We're excited to attend the COPAA conference this March, and we hope you are too!

Join us in ATL for a conference that's all about special education advocacy and law.

Make sure to connect with us on social media while you're there - we can't wait to see each of you in person!

21/01/2024

💡 NEW PODCAST EPISODE Giftedness and Beyond: Navigating Neurodivergence with Dr. Matt Zakreski💡

LISTEN NOW @ https://SpecialEd.libsyn.com/site
I’m thrilled to release a new episode featuring Dr. Matt Zakreski, co-founder of The Neurodiversity Collective. I dive deep with Dr. Matt to explore the nuances of neurodivergence.

🎙️From the importance of embracing neurodiversity to practical strategies for supporting neurodivergent children, this episode is packed with valuable insights.

🔊 Memorable Quote: "Labels are powerful. It matters that you're a zebra, not a weird horse." - Dr. Matt

Join us in understanding and supporting the neurodivergent community. Listen, learn, and let's make a difference together.

💡 Episode can be found at https://specialed.libsyn.com/site
📖 Transcript coming soon to https://SpecialEd.fm

Visit https://www.theneurodiversitycollective.com/ to discover more about Dr. Matt's mission.

Special education experts on
Special education topics for
Special education parents

14/12/2023

🕊️ Reflecting on the Anniversary of Sandy Hook 🕊️

As we remember the tragic day at Sandy Hook Elementary, it's crucial to address the long-term effects of school shootings. Last year, I had the privilege of speaking with Deb Del Vecchio-Scully, a trauma specialist who was on the ground in Newtown that fateful day.

🎙️ In this episode, we delve into the emotional aftermath and lasting impacts of school shootings. 🎙️

Listen to our conversation here: https://specialed.fm/?p=1279

Let's continue the conversation about supporting survivors and preventing future tragedies.

06/12/2023

🎙️ NEW Podcast Alert!🎙️
https://ntkwdj.libsyn.com/understanding-psychological-evaluations

I'm thrilled to share this episode with you, Understanding Psychological Evaluations.

Dr. Diana Naddeo and I dive into the world of educational planning as Dr. Naddeo highlights the significance of private evaluations, when to get them, and how to understand them. Check it out!

01/12/2023

This is very cool!

19/11/2023

It is with profound sadness that we mark the passing of former First Lady Rosalynn Carter, a tireless advocate for mental health, caregiving, and women's rights. As we remember her extraordinary life and legacy, we should reflect on her unyielding dedication to improving the lives of those with mental health challenges. Rosalynn's compassionate spirit and unwavering commitment to service have left an indelible impact on countless lives. Her efforts in mental health advocacy have not only reduced stigma but also enhanced access to care and resources, making a significant difference in the world of mental health care. Today, we honor her memory and continue to be inspired by her example of kindness, empathy, and strength.

First Lady Rosalynn Carter poses for a half-length portrait in the White House, February 1977. Library of Congress/Official White House Photograph/via REUTERS

18/11/2023

💡New Episode Alert!💡

Julie Swanson (a.k.a. The Life Skills Lady) and I discuss breakthrough strategies for empowering children with autism through life skills education—turning everyday challenges into stepping stones for independence.

Julie Swanson, the Life Skills Lady, shares her invaluable insights on nurturing independence in the 3 domains and 10 subcategories of life skills. From practical advice to heartwarming stories, this episode is a must-listen for parents and educators alike.

Don't miss out on this transformative conversation. Tune in to "Special Ed on Special Ed" wherever you get your podcasts.

15/11/2023

🌟 New Podcast Episode Alert: Maximizing Independence for Students with Autism 🌟

https://directory.libsyn.com/episode/index/id/28589573/tdest_id/2355791

Life skills are the biggest predictor of adult success for individuals with autism. Yet, many parents and school teams misunderstand the full breadth of life skills, and they often take a back seat in special education planning. Julie Swanson (a.k.a. The Life Skills Lady) and I discuss the 3 domains and 10 categories of life skills, their importance to increasing quality of life, and how to incorporate life skills into the IEP early.



https://directory.libsyn.com/episode/index/id/28589573/tdest_id/2355791

A TRANSCRIPT of this episode will be added to the show notes on the podcast website: shortly after publication.   Life skills are the biggest predictor of adult success for individuals with Autism. Yet, many parents and school teams misunderstand the full breadth of life skills, and they often take...

14/11/2023

🌟 New Podcast Episode Alert: Maximizing Independence for Students with Autism 🌟

Life skills are the biggest predictor of adult success for individuals with autism. Yet, many parents and school teams misunderstand the full breadth of life skills, and they often take a back seat in special education planning. Julie Swanson (a.k.a. The Life Skills Lady) and I discuss the 3 domains and 10 categories of life skills, their importance to increasing quality of life, and how to incorporate life skills into the IEP early.

https://directory.libsyn.com/episode/index/id/28589573/tdest_id/2355791

This link will take you to a page that’s not on LinkedIn

12/11/2023

Listen here: Social Skills Training Rooted in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA)
https://podcasts.apple.com/pt/podcast/social-skills-training-rooted-in-applied-behavior-analysis/id1500642833?i=1000588090639

Excited about my upcoming new episode on life skills, which will publish on Tuesday? Let's get in the mood with a throwback to a fan favorite! Dive into my episode on SOCIAL SKILLS TRAINING, where we delve deep into Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA). It's the perfect primer for what's coming up next. Give it a listen and let's gear up for another insightful discussion!

07/11/2023

Meet an Advocate Wednesday! Stacey Tié is a professional Non-Attorney Special Education Advocate at the Law Office of Laura Heneghan. Prior to joining Laura Heneghan's practice, Stacey was a special education advocate with the Law Offices of Dana A. Jonson, LLC. She is a frequent contributor on Attorney Jonson's podcast Special Ed on Special Ed and also a frequent panelist on S.E.L.F.'s parent education webinar series!

Stacey has an associate’s degree in Theater from the American Musical and Dramatic Academy, and a Bachelor in Business Finance from Pace University. She has completed coursework related to special education advocacy through the Council of Parent Attorneys and Advocates (COPAA) Special Education Advocacy Training (SEAT). She also completed Wrightslaw’s Special Education Law & Advocacy Training. Stacey received her certification in Mental Health First Aid USA through the National Council of Behavior Health. She is a member of the Council of Parent Attorneys and Advocates (COPAA) and is an active volunteer in her community.

06/11/2023

💡New Episode Alert!💡

Julie Swanson (a.k.a. The Life Skills Lady) and I discuss breakthrough strategies for empowering children with autism through life skills education—turning everyday challenges into stepping stones for independence.

Join us on November 14th as Julie Swanson, the Life Skills Lady, shares her invaluable insights on nurturing independence in the 3 domains and 10 subcategories of life skills. From practical advice to heartwarming stories, this episode is a must-listen for parents and educators alike.

Don't miss out on this transformative conversation. Tune in to "Special Ed on Special Ed" wherever you get your podcasts.

If my personal Special Education story was a movie, it would be less Cinderella and more Rocky. My story begins in school systems that didn’t know about ADHD or dyslexia, or how to remediate them. Today I’m a special ed attorney, former special ed teacher and administrator, current mom to five c...

30/08/2023

Back to school tips for parent of children with special education needs. As the new school year approaches, it is crucial to be prepared and informed to ensure your child’s successful educational journey. Here are some legal tips to help you navigate the upcoming year: Review Individualized Educat...

17/08/2023

In our journey through special education, we often encounter moments that challenge us to grow and learn. Today, we're sharing a thought-provoking post that resonates with the principles we hold dear at "Special Ed on Special Ed."

The post sheds light on a topic familiar to many parents – the balance between support and fostering independence. It acknowledges the journey of helping a child develop skills, like cutting food, and the realization that sometimes stepping back is the best way to empower them.

As parents and caregivers, these moments of reflection remind us of the incredible strength and potential within every individual. We're proud to be part of a community that strives to provide the tools, guidance, and support needed for each unique journey.

Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below. Let's continue to encourage one another on this path of growth and empowerment!

04/04/2023

Chocolate-Tiramisu Bread Pudding!
Rich mocha bread pudding with espresso marscapone filling.

04/04/2023

Love The Life Skills Lady!

06/03/2023

Learned tons and met many potential guests at the Council of Parent Attorneys and Advocates, Inc. annual conference. I need to get set for IEP season but new episodes will be coming soon! ❤️

16/12/2022

Wordle 544 4/6

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16/12/2022

Elton John tweeted today that he is leaving the social media platform.

"All my life I’ve tried to use music to bring people together," he wrote. "Yet it saddens me to see how misinformation is now being used to divide our world."

I love your music," Twitter's embattled new owner Elon Musk replied. "Hope you come back." https://abcn.ws/3anOxpM"

14/12/2022

On the 10th Anniversary of the Sandy Hook Shooting, I speak with Deb Del Vecchio-Scully, a trauma specialist, about the long-term impacts of school shootings.

30/11/2022

Check out my new episode on social skills training rooted in applied behavior analysis (ABA)!

When people hear ABA, they usually think of Autism. However, social skills training is a component of applied behavior analysis (ABA) therapy that can help students with social skills deficits. ABA social skills training offers a set of techniques designed to strengthen an individual’s social skil...

16/11/2022

Check out my new episode!

This is an essential episode because Social Emotional Learning is not just for students with special education needs - everyone needs social-emotional learning skills! Social-Emotional Learning, also called SEL, is an integral part of education and human development. It helps students and adults dev...

26/10/2022

Special Ed on Special Ed : Special Education Due Process Hearing, and a side of IEEs

A Due Process Hearing is just one of the dispute resolution options available to parents of children with special education needs. But what is a Due Process Hearing? In special education, Due Process Hearings are not often fully adjudicated because the issues are resolved through some form of settle...

13/10/2022

Special Ed on Special Ed : Barriers to Special Education: Special Education Legal Fund

A key component to public education is that it should be FREE! This includes special education. But what if you can't get the special education your child is entitled to? What happens when your school says "no" to you? There are no special education police to force schools to comply or even just tel...

28/09/2022

Special Ed on Special Ed : IEE = Independent Educational Evaluations

Today Diane Wilcutts, a special education advocate from Connecticut, joins me to talk about Independent Educational Evaluations or IEEs. Evaluations are a critical piece of the special education process, as the evaluation is where it all begins. But what if you don't agree with your school evaluatio...

24/02/2022

Today’s the day! Today is Fairfield County Gives, the day Fairfield County comes together to support the many amazing nonprofit organizations that provide resources, knowledge, and assistance to children, individuals, and families right here in our own backyard.

Today, I am supporting the Special Education Legal Fund, founded in 2018 by two mothers, to level the playing field in special education for families in need. I hope you will also consider supporting them!

Since the fall of 2018, they have provided over $450,000 in grants for legal support to hundreds of families across Connecticut.

Over 50% of their families live here in Fairfield County.

S.E.L.F. grants have provided valuable support in the advocacy process to families who are ‘stuck’ - whose kids are languishing in the system without appropriate supports, struggling, and failing to move forward. S.E.L.F. provides much-needed resources to these families to ensure that their children can learn and thrive.

Our donations are crucial to the success of S.E.L.F. and its mission. Whether you share this on your page, check out SELF's page to learn more, &/or make a small donation - everything helps and everything matters!

Thank you for your consideration!

https://www.fcgives.org/organizations/special-education-legal-fund

I’m ready to support Special Education Legal Fund on February 24, 2022 during Fairfield County's Giving Day. Learn more about Special Education Legal Fund and all the other organizations participating in .

01/09/2021

😔

Schools in almost every state are scrambling to find enough special education teachers to meet demand as they welcome students back for the new academic year.

28/08/2021

Interested in seeing the Foo Fighters on September 17th at the Hartford Healthcare Amphitheater Hartford in box seats?

This flash auction ends today! And it's for a good cause: Special Education Legal Fund

Bid now!
https://e.givesmart.com/events/kVd/i/_FLASH/eDdH/?search=

Help Special Education Legal Fund spread the word about Dance for S.E.L.F.!

18/08/2021

NEW EPISODE ALERT: Who's on your BOE?

Knowing your child’s IEP team isn’t enough.  To be the best advocate for your child, you need to know who makes the decisions, how, and when.   Your local Board of Education (BOE) consists of lay representatives who live in your community and are selected by you (in some areas there ar...