The meaning of IEP is pretty straightforward: individualized educational programs. Still, some parents are confused about who exactly the program is for or how it can help their children. In this blog, we debunk five common misconceptions about IEPs to help you get your child the support they need. Myth #1: Only children with severe disabilities qualify for IEPs Fact:… The post Debunking five common myths about IEPs first appeared on The Law Office of Meagan Nuñez ..read more

Can my child qualify for an IEP if diagnosed with no academic deficits? Many parents believe their child must be failing in school to qualify for an Individualized Education Program (IEP). This misconception often leads to delayed support for children who need it. IEPs can address a wide range of challenges, not just academic ones. Let us explore how children… The post Is my child qualified for an IEP if diagnosed but with no academic deficits? first appeared on The Law Office of Meagan Nuñez ..read more

When a child with special needs shows serious behavior problems at school, the school calls a special meeting called a Manifestation Determination Review (MDR). It is a structured discussion where a dedicated team asks: Did the child’s disability trigger the behavior? Did the school follow the child’s special education plan (IEP) correctly? Schools will hold an MDR if they are… The post Your rights during a Manifestation Determination Review (MDR) first appeared on The Law Office of Meagan Nuñez ..read more

Section 504 is a federal law that ensures that students with disabilities get the support they need in school. It requires schools to provide tools like extra time on tests or special technology to eligible students. But how do schools decide who qualifies for this help? One key requirement is that a student must have a “substantial limitation.” This means… The post What is “substantial limitation” under Section 504? first appeared on The Law Office of Meagan Nuñez ..read more

Parents of children with allergies may, very understandably, find themselves feeling very anxious about their children attending school, field trips, extracurricular activities, etc. After all, a single exposure to an allergen could result in a potentially devastating reaction. Thankfully, because the law recognizes allergies as a disability for the purposes of public schooling, kids can benefit from the protections that… The post 504 plans for children with allergies  first appeared on The Law Office of Meagan Nuñez ..read more

Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) are legally binding plans designed to meet your child’s unique learning needs. Assessments are necessary to develop these plans, helping you and the school identify your child’s strengths and challenges. As a parent, you are a key part of the process, and you have the right to take part in the decision-making. However, language can be a… The post Your language access rights during IEP assessments first appeared on The Law Office of Meagan Nuñez ..read more

As a parent, you have the deepest understanding of your child’s strengths and areas for improvement. Still, during IEP discussions, do you feel that others truly listen to your input? At what point should you consider taking legal action to advocate for your child’s needs? Knowing when to stand firm is crucial for your child’s overall well-being. Signs that litigation… The post When is an IEP litigation necessary? first appeared on The Law Office of Meagan Nuñez ..read more

Moving to a new school can be tough for any child, but it could be incredibly challenging for children with special needs. As a parent, you, too, might feel overwhelmed by the process. But don’t worry – with some planning and preparation, you can make this transition smoother for your child. By focusing on key areas, you can ensure your… The post Transitioning your child with special needs to a new school first appeared on The Law Office of Meagan Nuñez ..read more

School is often challenging in unique ways for children with special needs. They may find it more difficult to focus in class or to obtain the same scores that their peers do on important tests. Federal and state laws help ensure that even those with debilitating medical conditions have the right to reasonable accommodations. Public schools should provide certain forms… The post 3 testing accommodations that can be useful in an IEP first appeared on The Law Office of Meagan Nuñez ..read more

The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) institutionalized the concept of the least restrictive environment (LRE) in special education, requiring schools to provide free, appropriate public education (FAPE) to students with special needs. Under this law, students with special needs have the right to free public education in the most appropriate and least restrictive setting. LRE definition and exemptions Under… The post Can schools refuse LRE for my child? first appeared on The Law Office of Meagan Nuñez ..read more