Individualized Education Program (IEP) and Special Education: Overview & Advocacy

During this 2-hour special education overview training, community behavioral health professional staff and clinicians will explore both the federal and Massachusetts statutes and regulations governing special education rights. The training will include an in-depth review of the lifecycle of an IEP and timeline of the IEP process so that participants understand how students are found eligible for special education services. The rights of parents’ and guardians’ during the IEP process, specifically how to respond to an IEP to support students in receiving and maintaining the supports they need, as well as rights to dispute resolution mechanisms beyond the IEP process will be discussed. Participants will also learn the distinction between special education services and accommodations available under 504 plans.