In this Ask The Advocate session, Karen Mayer Cunningham answers rapid-fire questions on everything from paraprofessionals and “direct supervision” to prior written notice (PWN), Child Find, reconvenes, data access, and how to handle placements when needs don’t match the setting. She also shares a quick update from Capitol Hill on IDEA funding and accountability.
Key reminders: “Have to” isn’t a law, data > opinions, and if it isn’t in writing, it didn’t happen.
✳️ What You’ll Learn
- Paraprofessionals & “direct supervision”: when subs or paras can (and cannot) deliver services
- 504 vs IEP: why a 504 typically triggers Child Find and a full evaluation
- PWN scripts: how to request denials in writing (devices, aides, services)
- Data access: raw data vs. summaries—what belongs in your child’s educational record
- Behavior & placement: elopement, BIP/FBA, and safety without defaulting to exclusion
- Reconvenes & dissent: disagree the right way and use the next 10 days to gather evidence
- Health updates: G-tube/IHP coordination before day one
- Teacher readiness: the Zac Pack system to ensure staff know the IEP
📚 Resources Mentioned
- The Epic IEP (Book + $500 bonuses): https://TheEpicIEP.com
- Join The Academy (250+ hours of training): https://www.skool.com/special-education-academy/about
- Special Education Academy App: App Store + Google Play
“When we get it right for the child, we get it right for everyone.” — Karen Mayer Cunningham
✨ 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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