The Collaborative IEP

In this episode, I wrap up our journey through Part B of IDEA, give you a quick look at Section 1419 (preschool grants), and share a personal advocacy lesson about the power of “using all the words” at the IEP table. I also invite you to help shape future episodes and highlight resources like the Collaborative IEP Membership and IEP Guru Academy to support your advocacy journey.

[00:00] – Welcome & Listener Input

[02:15] – Sectio...

Today's episode is all about the essentials of IDEA Sections 1417 and 1418. We'll dig into the responsibilities of the Secretary of Education, key prohibitions on federal mandates, confidentiality rules, and more. I'll also break down data reporting requirements and how they impact our understanding of disproportionality in special education. Tune in for a concise, sweat-free overview that will keep you in the know. 

00:00 Intr...

Today we dive into section 1416 of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA). We'll cover the essentials of federal and state monitoring, state performance plans, and how these processes ensure the educational success of students with disabilities. I'll also share some personal reflections on gratitude and how it ties into effective advocacy during IEP meetings. Join me as we unpack this crucial piece of legislation wh...

Today, I emphasize the importance of acknowledging our 'perfectly imperfect' lives, especially during the busy IEP season. I share exciting news about my summer consulting offerings at a discount, explaining how this helps me manage the seasonal nature of my work and prepare for the fall intake. If you need help making strong cases for inclusive services or specific curricula, I'm here to assist starting this summer. Let's tackle o...

In this episode, I sit down with Dr. Joy, a board-certified pediatrician specializing in integrative care for neurodiverse children. We delve into the topic of mast cell activation syndrome (MCAS) and histamine intolerance, exploring how an awareness of these conditions can profoundly impact lives. Dr. Joy shares her unique perspective on integrative medicine from both personal and professional experiences, emphasizing the importan...

On this episode of the Collaborative IEP podcast,  we continue on our deep dive into the intricacies of IDEA Section 1415, focusing on procedural safeguards. We'll explore essential details on notification requirements, prior written notices, due process complaints, mediation processes, and impartial due process hearings. Discover how to effectively handle these procedural safeguards to ensure you are well-prepared for your ne...

In this episode of the Collaborative IEP Podcast, I’m diving into Section 1415 of the IDEA—the part of the law that lays out procedural safeguards. These protections are game-changers for families, offering critical rights that help level the playing field in special education. I’m sharing why I care so deeply about these safeguards, breaking down what they mean, how they work, and why they matter.

We’ll talk about things like your ...

In this episode of the Collaborative IEP podcast, we finally finish Section 1414, specifically focusing on subsection D, which covers the development of the IEP. We’ll  discuss the four essential considerations for the IEP team, including the strengths of the child, parental concerns, evaluation results, and the child's academic, developmental, and functional needs. The episode also explores special factors that must be consid...

Welcome back to the Collaborative IEP podcast!  I'm thrilled to be back after my spring break. In this episode, we continue our exploration of Section 1414 of IDEA, focusing on evaluations, eligibility determinations, individualized education programs, and educational placements. We delve into the specifics of the IEP team, its necessary members, and the complex scenarios when attendance isn't necessary or members can be excus...

In this episode of the Collaborative IEP Podcast, I'm Ashley Barlow, your host. We continue our exploration of the IDEA, specifically focusing on Individualized Education Programs (IEPs). Starting with IDEA Part B, Section 1414, we dive into the essential components of IEPs, including present levels of academic and functional performance, writing measurable annual goals, and outlining special education and related services. We disc...

In this episode I’ll continue to break down Section 1414, Part B of the IDEA, focusing on the determination of eligibility.  The discussion will emphasize the meaningful participation of parents in the eligibility process and the importance of obtaining and reviewing all necessary documentation. In this portion of SEction 1414, we’ll also learn about the severe discrepancy model for eligibility for a  specific learning di...

In this special episode of The Collaborative IEP Podcast, I’m diving into a big case you might’ve heard about—Texas vs. Becerra (now Kennedy)—and what it could mean for Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act. Section 504, which has been around since 1973, is a law that protects people with disabilities from discrimination from organizations and businesses that receive federal funding.  I have read the entire case, as well as al...

In this episode of the Collaborative IEP Podcast, I dive deep into the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), focusing specifically on evaluations and the IEP document itself. I'm walking you through sections 1414 A, B, and C—breaking down the purpose of different assessment tools, the requirement for parental consent, and the step-by-step procedures for evaluations and reevaluations.

• 00:00 Introduction and Pod...

In this special episode I’m diving into part two of our special series on the Department of Education’s policy document called Building and Sustaining Inclusive Educational Practices. This time, we’re talking all about how to actually put inclusive education into practice—with guiding principles, real-world strategies, and a big focus on belonging, leadership, and collaboration. 

I’ll also share some highlights on the bene...

Welcome back to the Collaborative IUP podcast! I'm Ashley Barlow, your host, and today we're diving into Part B, Section 1413 of the IDEA statute. This section focuses on what local education agencies, like your school districts, need to do to ensure they receive federal funds for special education. We'll walk through the general provisions, exceptions, compliance rules, and specific uses of funds. I also share exciting updates: ou...

Welcome back to the Collaborative IEP podcast! I’m Ashley Barlow, your host, and today’s special episode is all about building and sustaining inclusive educational practices. We dive into the 52-page joint policy guidance from the Office of Special Education and Rehabilitated Services (OSERS) and the Office of Elementary and Secondary Education. This comprehensive document highlights where inclusive practices fit into the Individua...

Today, we're diving deep into Section 1412 of the IDEA, which is all about State Eligibility. We'll go through the 25 key requirements states must meet to qualify for federal funding under the IDEA. From providing a free, appropriate public education (FAPE) to ensuring students' confidentiality, and even discussing procedural safeguards, we cover it all. We'll also talk about various topics such as child find, IEP development, LRE ...

In this episode of the Collaborative IEP podcast, host Ashley Barlow returns from a brief detour in our IDEA series to discuss Section 1411 of IDEA, which is all about funding and appropriations. The episode begins with a brief overview of the significance of staying informed through trusted sources in light of recent federal-level changes. I describe some resources, including the special series on this podcast, that may be of as...

You know what wasn't on my BINGO card for 2025? An Anti-Inclusion Narrative! Yet, we are where we are (or if you shop at Fresh Thyme, I yam what I yam... but I digress), and that's why I'm happy to have the opportunity to share my recent conversation with our friend, Kayla Coburn, with you all! Kayla has so many wonderful resources @inclusionstarts now to help us carve out inclusive opportunities, particularly at school. And wh...