Ask the Advocate: Paraprofessionals, IEP Myths, and the Truth About Special Education Law

n this episode of Ask the Advocate, Karen Mayer Cunningham, the Special Education Boss®, dives deep into the questions flooding her inbox every week — from paraprofessionals and IEP goals to compensatory services, parent rights, and what really happens when the law isn’t followed.

Joined by Cindy, Karen breaks down complex special education issues with humor, honesty, and heart. You’ll learn how to recognize violations, protect your child’s rights, and walk into IEP meetings more informed and confident than ever before.

📘 The Epic IEP Is Coming!
Karen’s groundbreaking new book The Epic IEP™ is now available for pre-order at TheEpicIEP.com
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When you pre-order your hardcover copy and return to register your receipt, you’ll unlock $500 in exclusive bonuses, including:
✨ Reader’s Guide
✨ Mini Book of Karen Quotes
✨ Private Epic IEP Book Club
✨ Exclusive Author Q&A Session
✨ 6-Hour Live IEP Summit on February 5, 2026

Whether you’re a parent, paraprofessional, teacher, or advocate, this episode will give you the clarity and courage to sit at the IEP table fully equipped.

IN THIS EPISODE:
🎯 Can paraprofessionals teach small groups without a special educator?
🎯 How to know if your child’s IEP goals are being met
🎯 What to do when your district lacks certified teachers
🎯 The power of effective advocacy—and where to start

RESOURCES MENTIONED:
📚 Pre-Order The Epic IEP: TheEpicIEP.com
🎓 Join The Academy: https://www.skool.com/special-education-academy/about
💌 Request an Advocate: [e-mail]

“When we get it right for the child, we get it right for everybody.” — Karen Mayer Cunningham

Support the show

✨ 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 [e-mail]

📱 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.

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(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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