Don’t Overcomplicate It: Testing Requests, Service Denials, and Straight Talk on Advocacy

Tired of being told “we don’t do that” or “your concern isn’t valid”?
This episode of Special Education Boss® is your reminder: you don’t need permission to advocate for your child.

Karen Mayer Cunningham returns with another fire Ask the Advocate Q&A—answering real questions from parents, teachers, and advocates nationwide. Whether you’re being told you can’t request testing, the IEP “isn’t needed,” or services were “missed but not a big deal”—this episode gives you clarity, confidence, and next steps.

We’re talking:
✅ How to request testing (simple, not stressful)
✅ Data myths that delay evaluations
✅ Predetermination: what it looks like & how to respond
✅ When reevaluations are actually necessary
✅ Speech-only IEPs, ADHD concerns, and service denials
✅ Why missing just one session matters
✅ What “refusal” really means in BIPs and IEPs
✅ Filing state complaints—the right way
✅ Retention, behavior plans, and tracking the right data
✅ Why your voice at the table matters more than ever

🎯 Plus: Upcoming training details for parents, teachers & advocates who are ready to step in and serve—without confusion or second-guessing.

📍 Virtual 2-Day Intensive — June 22–23, 2025
📍 In-Person 2-Day Training (Florida) — July 19–20, 2025
📍 Join The Academy — Weekly trainings, replays, scripts, and tools:

🎙 Listen on YouTube, Buzzsprout, or your favorite podcast platform.
💬 Like, share, comment, and subscribe to help more families get access to clear answers and strong support.

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✨ 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]

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• TikTok & Instagram: @specialeducationboss
• YouTube: Special Education Academy

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