Feeling lost in the maze of special education? In this Ask the Advocate episode, Karen Mayer Cunningham answers rapid-fire questions about IEP signatures, extended school year (ESY), RTI, para support, compensatory time, evaluations, and more. Get clear, direct, and empowering guidance every parent and advocate needs.
Inside this episode:
✅ Why there’s no such thing as implied consent in an IEP
✅ What schools must provide when a student is suspended or placed elsewhere
✅ The truth about 504 vs. IEP (and why one doesn’t replace the other)
✅ When and how to request compensatory services
✅ What to know about evaluations, IEEs, and timelines
✅ Understanding para support, self-contained programs, and out-of-district placements
✅ Accommodations vs. modifications explained
✅ The role of assistive technology and communication devices
✅ Tips on ESY, dyslexia services, and caseloads
✅ How to find and train as an advocate
📌 Resources Mentioned:
- Federal Code of Regulations for IDEA (Individuals with Disabilities Education Act)
- U.S. Department of Education: ed.gov
- Special Education Academy Trainings: https://specialeducationacademy.com/training
✨ Ready to get trained and empowered?
Join The Academy today for 250+ hours of on-demand trainings, live weekly coaching, and a supportive advocacy community.
👉 Join The Academy
📧 Need an advocate? Email: advocate@specialeducationacademy.com
✨ When we get it right for the child, we get it right for everybody. ✨
👩⚖️ Hosted by Karen Mayer Cunningham, Advocate & Special Education Boss®
Each week, Karen shares real stories, legal insights, and no-nonsense strategies to help you navigate special education with clarity and confidence.
👉 Subscribe & never miss an episode — new episodes drop every week!
🎓 Join The Academy: Weekly live trainings + 250+ hours of advocacy tools & expert resources
🔗 Learn more at The Academy
📬 Have a question? Email us at advocate@specialeducationacademy.com
📱 Follow Karen on:
- TikTok & Instagram: @specialeducationboss
- YouTube: Special Education Academy
🧠 Want to level up your advocacy game?
Check out the Advocate's Bookshelf — a curated collection of must-have tools, guides, and legal references every special education advocate should own. From federal code to diagnostic manuals, these are the essentials that help you advocate with clarity and confidence.
📚 Browse now: https://amzn.to/3RiQPLl
(As an Amazon Associate, Karen may earn a small commission if you make a purchase — at no extra cost to you.)
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