Ennis Britton's On the Call

On the Call: Autism Eligibility

Jeremy Neff and Erin Wessendorf-Wortman Season 3 Episode 8

A medical diagnosis can be one piece of the puzzle in special education. In this episode, Jeremy and Erin dive into autism eligibility under the IDEA, examining a case from North Carolina where a school district defended its decision to deny special education services to a recently diagnosed student. They look at the critical steps of conducting thorough initial evaluations and the importance of collaborating with parents to clarify the distinction between a medical diagnosis and educational eligibility. They share strategies to ensure a complete, accurate understanding of a student’s unique educational needs.

*Listen to the "choose your f-word" IEE episode referenced in this episode here

Your favorite podcasters, Jeremy Neff and Erin Wessendorf‑Wortman, will be attending LRP’s National Institute in New Orleans, April 26–29, 2026! Jeremy and Pam Leist will present 'What You Don’t Know Can Hurt You: Navigating Section 504’s Hidden Risks' at the Pre‑Symposium, followed by Monday sessions on Mental Health (Jeremy) and Service Animals (Pam).  Hope to see you there! Here is the link to register!