Welcome to a brand new episode of "Don't IEP Alone" with your host, Lisa Lightner. Today, we're diving into a significant court case involving the General Education Provisions Act (GEPA) from 1974 that the new administration recently lost. This case underscores the vital role states play in determining educational curriculum and the longstanding prohibition on federal overreach.
Lisa explores why local and state elections matter more than ever, especially as groups like "Moms for Liberty" make waves by influencing school board decisions. We also take a closer look at the implications of the GEPA on federal funding decisions, the executive branch's limitations, and the power of grassroots change. Plus, don't miss the introduction of Lisa's new anxiety at school toolkit, designed to empower you to better advocate for your child's needs. Let's unravel these complex issues and discover how they impact you and your family.
Don't IEP Alone with Lisa Lightner, Special Education Advocate
Thank you for listening to this episode of Don't IEP Alone. See you next time!
Other ways I can help you with IEPs:
📊 Free IEP Data Collection Sheets
📒 Free IEP Binder for Parents
☑️ IEP Meeting Preparation Kit
🧰 IEP Toolkit for Parents
👩💻 Online Advocacy Training
🙋 Ask an Advocate your IEP Question
🧰 IEP Teacher Toolkit
This is one of the most important parts of the IEP...so make it great.
I'm offering tips on how to write your best EVER parent concerns letter for your IEP.
Other ways I can help you with IEPs:
📊 Free IEP Data Collection Sheets
📒 Free IEP Binder for Parents
☑️ IEP Meeting Preparation Kit
🧰 IEP Toolkit for Parents
👩💻 Online Advocacy Training
🙋 Ask an Advocate your IEP Question
🧰 IEP Teacher Toolkit
Why did {the school} do that? Why?
Answering this age old question.
Other ways I can help you with IEPs:
📊 Free IEP Data Collection Sheets
📒 Free IEP Binder for Parents
☑️ IEP Meeting Preparation Kit
🧰 IEP Toolkit for Parents
👩💻 Online Advocacy Training
🙋 Ask an Advocate your IEP Question
🧰 IEP Teacher Toolkit
A bill just passed in the House that could mean big cuts to Medicaid—even though the word Medicaid isn’t in it. Sound sneaky? That’s because it is.
In this episode, I’m breaking down:
✅ What this bill actually does
✅ The myths about Medicaid fraud that keep getting repeated (and why they’re bogus)
✅ Why we must take action—today, not tomorrow
✅ How to call, email, and visit your senator to make your voice heard
Our kids need us to fight for them. No one is coming to save us—it’s on us to push back. We are NOT the minority. The majority of Americans are fed up, and it’s time to act.
🔗 Links to scripts, templates, and resources: https://adayinourshoes.com/medicaid-cuts/
Don't IEP Alone with Lisa Lightner, Special Education Advocate
Thank you for listening to this episode of Don't IEP Alone. See you next time!
Other ways I can help you with IEPs:
📊 Free IEP Data Collection Sheets
📒 Free IEP Binder for Parents
☑️ IEP Meeting Preparation Kit
🧰 IEP Toolkit for Parents
👩💻 Online Advocacy Training
🙋 Ask an Advocate your IEP Question
🧰 IEP Teacher Toolkit
It's the time of year when you should be making plans for summer ESY. Here's what you need to know.
Other ways I can help you with IEPs:
📊 Free IEP Data Collection Sheets
📒 Free IEP Binder for Parents
☑️ IEP Meeting Preparation Kit
🧰 IEP Toolkit for Parents
👩💻 Online Advocacy Training
🙋 Ask an Advocate your IEP Question
🧰 IEP Teacher Toolkit
We've all been there--in an IEP meeting with that one difficult, ornery person. But can you uninvite them to the IEP meeting?
Other ways I can help you with IEPs:
📊 Free IEP Data Collection Sheets
📒 Free IEP Binder for Parents
☑️ IEP Meeting Preparation Kit
🧰 IEP Toolkit for Parents
👩💻 Online Advocacy Training
🙋 Ask an Advocate your IEP Question
🧰 IEP Teacher Toolkit
A 504 was never intended to be an "IEP lite" but that is what is happening. What can you do if you're being pushed toward a 504 when you think they need an IEP?
Other ways I can help you with IEPs:
📊 Free IEP Data Collection Sheets
📒 Free IEP Binder for Parents
☑️ IEP Meeting Preparation Kit
🧰 IEP Toolkit for Parents
👩💻 Online Advocacy Training
🙋 Ask an Advocate your IEP Question
🧰 IEP Teacher Toolkit
If you have limited time and just want to know what to focus on quickly, which section of the IEP is the most important?
Other ways I can help you with IEPs:
📊 Free IEP Data Collection Sheets
📒 Free IEP Binder for Parents
☑️ IEP Meeting Preparation Kit
🧰 IEP Toolkit for Parents
👩💻 Online Advocacy Training
🙋 Ask an Advocate your IEP Question
🧰 IEP Teacher Toolkit
In this episode of Don't IEP Alone, host Lisa Lightner delves into the intricacies of IDEA (Individuals with Disabilities Education Act) and the implications of public versus private education for children with special needs. Lisa provides a historical overview of IDEA's origins, linking it to a significant Pennsylvania court case that laid the groundwork for the legislation.
She explores the ongoing challenges public schools face in providing a Free Appropriate Public Education (FAPE) due to financial constraints and the political push towards privatization. With a critical lens, Lisa discusses the concept of vouchers and charter schools, arguing against them as solutions for educational inequity. Instead, she advocates for strengthening public education funding to ensure all children, especially those with disabilities, receive the education they deserve.
Join Lisa as she unpacks these complex issues, highlighting the political nature of educational policies and their real-world impact on families navigating the IEP process.
Link to join training mentioned in episode: https://adayinourshoes.org/dont-iep-alone-academy-sale/
Don't IEP Alone with Lisa Lightner, Special Education Advocate
Thank you for listening to this episode of Don't IEP Alone. See you next time!
Other ways I can help you with IEPs:
📊 Free IEP Data Collection Sheets
📒 Free IEP Binder for Parents
☑️ IEP Meeting Preparation Kit
🧰 IEP Toolkit for Parents
👩💻 Online Advocacy Training
🙋 Ask an Advocate your IEP Question
🧰 IEP Teacher Toolkit
Welcome to a special edition of Don't IEP Alone with your host, Lisa Lightner. In this episode, Lisa shares her insights and reflections ahead of the weekend's big event – the Super Bowl. As Philadelphia Eagles fans gear up for an exciting game, Lisa discusses how current events and social dynamics are creating a whirlwind of emotions. She touches upon the fast-paced changes happening in the world politically and socially, and encourages listeners to focus on what truly matters by selecting key areas to engage in advocacy and change. Above all, she emphasizes the importance of maintaining joy and finding healthy coping mechanisms amidst challenging times. Join Lisa as she inspires us to protect our peace, prioritize our passions, and celebrate even amidst the chaos. Whether it's a football game or personal milestones, Lisa reminds us to find happiness and stand firm against negativity, advocating for a brighter future. Tune in and let's enjoy the journey together!
Don't IEP Alone with Lisa Lightner, Special Education Advocate
Thank you for listening to this episode of Don't IEP Alone. See you next time!
Other ways I can help you with IEPs:
📊 Free IEP Data Collection Sheets
📒 Free IEP Binder for Parents
☑️ IEP Meeting Preparation Kit
🧰 IEP Toolkit for Parents
👩💻 Online Advocacy Training
🙋 Ask an Advocate your IEP Question
🧰 IEP Teacher Toolkit
In this episode of "Don't IEP Alone," host Lisa Lightner welcomes back attorney Laura Hennigan to discuss the complex and ever-evolving landscape of special education and disability rights in the United States. They delve into the looming concerns surrounding the potential weakening of the IDEA and the US Department of Education's role amidst current political tumult. Laura, a Connecticut-based parent attorney with personal ties to special education, offers valuable insights into navigating the potential changes and challenges parents and advocates may face.
They emphasize the importance of meaningful advocacy, staying informed, and focusing on what can be controlled in these uncertain times. Together, they explore practical strategies for parents and educators to protect the rights of children with disabilities. Tune in to gain a sense of hope, actionable steps, and a reminder of the importance of staying engaged in the fight for education equity.
Laura Heneghan is a dedicated parent attorney specializing in special education. Her journey into this field was inspired by her personal experiences as a mother of children with disabilities. After successfully navigating the complex special education system for her own family, Laura recognized the opportunity to assist others facing similar challenges. Based in Connecticut, she is part of a supportive community of attorneys and advocates committed to making a difference. Laura values collaboration and continuous learning, having established a fruitful partnership with fellow advocate Lisa several years ago. Her passion and expertise drive her mission to empower families in their pursuit of educational equity.
Don't IEP Alone with Lisa Lightner, Special Education Advocate
The IEP process never gets easier. YOU get better.
How? With specific action steps and training.
Visit ADayInOurShoes.org for more information.
Thank you for listening to this episode of Don't IEP Alone. See you next time!
Other ways I can help you with IEPs:
📊 Free IEP Data Collection Sheets
📒 Free IEP Binder for Parents
☑️ IEP Meeting Preparation Kit
🧰 IEP Toolkit for Parents
👩💻 Online Advocacy Training
🙋 Ask an Advocate your IEP Question
🧰 IEP Teacher Toolkit
IEP Data Collection-What does it look like? Who does it?
How to get Meaningful IEP Data | Examples | Collection | Sheets
Other ways I can help you with IEPs:
📊 Free IEP Data Collection Sheets
📒 Free IEP Binder for Parents
☑️ IEP Meeting Preparation Kit
🧰 IEP Toolkit for Parents
👩💻 Online Advocacy Training
🙋 Ask an Advocate your IEP Question
🧰 IEP Teacher Toolkit
Janice Lloyd is an experienced teacher trainer, private school administrator, and small group instructor at The Highlands School in Bel Air, Maryland. She has extensive experience with Orton-Gillingham methodologies, structured literacy, and learning differences such as dyslexia, dyscalculia, dysgraphia and ADHD/executive function weaknesses.
The Highlands School educates students with learning differences and achievement gaps. We instill hope and confidence in our students by fostering a positive and nurturing environment. We focus on teaching our students methods to help them realize their strengths, overcome frustrations, and achieve academic and social success.
Don't IEP Alone with Lisa Lightner, Special Education Advocate
The IEP process never gets easier. YOU get better.
How? With specific action steps and training.
Visit ADayInOurShoes.org for more information.
Thank you for listening to this episode of Don't IEP Alone. See you next time!
Other ways I can help you with IEPs:
📊 Free IEP Data Collection Sheets
📒 Free IEP Binder for Parents
☑️ IEP Meeting Preparation Kit
🧰 IEP Toolkit for Parents
👩💻 Online Advocacy Training
🙋 Ask an Advocate your IEP Question
🧰 IEP Teacher Toolkit
Lisa Lightner is the insightful host of "Don't IEP Alone," a podcast offering support and guidance for navigating the complexities of Individualized Education Programs (IEPs). Known for her engaging storytelling and timely discussions, Lisa tackles current events and timeless wisdom with equal dexterity. In an episode recorded just two weeks after the 2025 inauguration, she reflects on societal behaviors through the lens of Dale Carnegie's enduring advice from 1937: that people resist admitting they're wrong, even when faced with evidence. This philosophy shapes her understanding of the world and is particularly relevant with today's political climate. Exceptionally dedicated to her audience, Lisa adapts her publishing schedule to ensure listeners receive valuable content, demonstrating her commitment to providing timely and impactful episodes.
Don't IEP Alone with Lisa Lightner, Special Education Advocate
Thank you for listening to this episode of Don't IEP Alone. See you next time!
Other ways I can help you with IEPs:
📊 Free IEP Data Collection Sheets
📒 Free IEP Binder for Parents
☑️ IEP Meeting Preparation Kit
🧰 IEP Toolkit for Parents
👩💻 Online Advocacy Training
🙋 Ask an Advocate your IEP Question
🧰 IEP Teacher Toolkit
In today's episode of "Don't IEP Alone," host Lisa Lightner candidly addresses the urgent issues arising from the recent federal spending freeze initiated by the new administration and its impact on Medicaid.
As Lisa navigates the complex intersection of politics and disability advocacy, she sheds light on how unconstitutional executive orders are affecting millions of Americans, including her own family. Lisa discusses the broader implications of these political decisions, from healthcare access to infrastructure, emphasizing the need for informed and critical evaluation of government actions.
She invites listeners to engage with her political action group, "Stepping Up for Disabled Kids," to voice their concerns and advocate for the necessary support their families require. Tune in for a passionate and informative discussion on the challenges and actions needed in these tumultuous times.
Don't IEP Alone with Lisa Lightner, Special Education Advocate
Thank you for listening to this episode of Don't IEP Alone. See you next time!
Other ways I can help you with IEPs:
📊 Free IEP Data Collection Sheets
📒 Free IEP Binder for Parents
☑️ IEP Meeting Preparation Kit
🧰 IEP Toolkit for Parents
👩💻 Online Advocacy Training
🙋 Ask an Advocate your IEP Question
🧰 IEP Teacher Toolkit
I'm talking about two things today--IEP Goal Banks and Parent Teacher Conferences when you have an IEP.
Get the IEP Toolkit.
-------------------------------
Hello, and welcome to another episode of "Don't IEP Alone." I'm your host, Lisa Lightner. Today, we have some exciting topics to discuss, including the highly requested IEP goal bank and navigating parent-teacher conferences.
So, whether you're seeking guidance on IEP goal setting or advice for upcoming parent-teacher conferences, this episode has something for you.
Don't IEP Alone with Lisa Lightner, Special Education Advocate
Thank you for listening to this episode of Don't IEP Alone. See you next time!
Other ways I can help you with IEPs:
📊 Free IEP Data Collection Sheets
📒 Free IEP Binder for Parents
☑️ IEP Meeting Preparation Kit
🧰 IEP Toolkit for Parents
👩💻 Online Advocacy Training
🙋 Ask an Advocate your IEP Question
🧰 IEP Teacher Toolkit
Welcome to another episode of Don't IEP Alone with your host, Lisa Lightner. In this thought-provoking installment, Lisa shares her personal journey navigating autism advocacy as the parent of a disabled child. With candor and determination, Lisa challenges the prevailing narratives in the autism advocacy community, emphasizing the importance of genuine conversations over performative advocacy. She reflects on the evolution of her views on autism, informed by personal experience and online discourse, and discusses the broader implications these narratives have on funding, programming, and support for individuals with severe autism. Tune in as Lisa passionately advocates for those, like her son, whose voices are often unheard in these discussions.
Autism Information and Resources
- Understanding "Allistic" and Its Impact on Your Child’s IEP
- The Differences Between Hyperlexia and Gestalt Language Processing
- 15 Popular Books with Autistic Main Characters
- Hand Flapping When Excited, But Not Autism? How to Tell, When to Worry.
- 7 Audiologist-Recommended Noise Cancelling Headphones for Autism, ADHD, or Anxiety
- 50 Sensory Bin Ideas for Autism
- Transautistic and transabled, what are these?
- How to Write an IEP for Autism: IEP Goal Ideas, Sample PDF
- Free Interoception Activities PDF: How to Improve Interoceptive Skills
- 14 Pretend Play Ideas (+ Pretend Play and Autism)
- Autism Incontinence: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options
- Educational Autism vs Medical Autism: What's the Difference?
Don't IEP Alone with Lisa Lightner, Special Education Advocate
The IEP process never gets easier. YOU get better.
How? With specific action steps and training.
Visit ADayInOurShoes.org for more information.
Thank you for listening to this episode of Don't IEP Alone. See you next time!
Other ways I can help you with IEPs:
📊 Free IEP Data Collection Sheets
📒 Free IEP Binder for Parents
☑️ IEP Meeting Preparation Kit
🧰 IEP Toolkit for Parents
👩💻 Online Advocacy Training
🙋 Ask an Advocate your IEP Question
🧰 IEP Teacher Toolkit
Mentioned in episode:
Link to take training: https://adayinourshoes.org/iep-special-education-advocacy/
Link to purchase toolkit: https://adayinourshoes.org/download-the-iep-toolkit/
On this special Tuesday edition of Don't IEP Alone, host Lisa Lightner covers the essential things parents need to do right now for their child's Individualized Education Program.
As the February frenzy approaches and IEP meetings loom, Lisa encourages parents to reclaim their understanding of their child's IEP by revisiting the document and identifying necessary changes. Additionally, she shares insights about the importance of addressing Extended School Year (ESY) services and urges parents to equip themselves with the knowledge needed to advocate effectively for their children.
Through real-life testimonials and practical advice, Lisa emphasizes the need for formal IEP training and invites parents to take proactive steps towards ensuring their child receives the support they are entitled to. Join us as we navigate the challenging terrain of IEPs and empower parents to advocate for their children's educational needs.
Don't IEP Alone with Lisa Lightner, Special Education Advocate
Thank you for listening to this episode of Don't IEP Alone. See you next time!
Other ways I can help you with IEPs:
📊 Free IEP Data Collection Sheets
📒 Free IEP Binder for Parents
☑️ IEP Meeting Preparation Kit
🧰 IEP Toolkit for Parents
👩💻 Online Advocacy Training
🙋 Ask an Advocate your IEP Question
🧰 IEP Teacher Toolkit
When parents request too many IEP meetings. Yes, that's a "thing" sometimes.
Other ways I can help you with IEPs:
📊 Free IEP Data Collection Sheets
📒 Free IEP Binder for Parents
☑️ IEP Meeting Preparation Kit
🧰 IEP Toolkit for Parents
👩💻 Online Advocacy Training
🙋 Ask an Advocate your IEP Question
🧰 IEP Teacher Toolkit
Navigating the Journey of IEPs: Ownership, Change, and Accountability
Welcome to another episode of Don't IEP Alone with your host, Lisa Lightner. In today's candid discussion, Lisa addresses the challenges faced by IEP (Individualized Education Program) parents and the importance of taking active ownership of the IEP journey. She shares her personal experiences and frustrations with parents seeking quick fixes rather than engaging in the ongoing process of advocacy.
Lisa emphasizes the need for parents to be the driving force in improving their IEPs, as no one else is more motivated to do so. Tune in as she offers tough love advice, recounts her own obstacles and triumphs, and encourages listeners to take proactive steps toward achieving meaningful change.
Whether you're a seasoned advocate or just starting your journey, Lisa's insights are sure to inspire action and empower parents to navigate the IEP landscape with confidence. Don't miss this empowering episode filled with practical advice and heartfelt encouragement.
Don't IEP Alone with Lisa Lightner, Special Education Advocate
Thank you for listening to this episode of Don't IEP Alone. See you next time!
Other ways I can help you with IEPs:
📊 Free IEP Data Collection Sheets
📒 Free IEP Binder for Parents
☑️ IEP Meeting Preparation Kit
🧰 IEP Toolkit for Parents
👩💻 Online Advocacy Training
🙋 Ask an Advocate your IEP Question
🧰 IEP Teacher Toolkit
Very brief episode, a little of this and that....and what to do right now for your IEP advocacy.
Mentioned in podcast: Stepping Up for Disabled Kids
Online Advocacy Training
Free Webinar: What can I ask for on my IEP?
Don't IEP Alone with Lisa Lightner, Special Education Advocate
Thank you for listening to this episode of Don't IEP Alone. See you next time!
Other ways I can help you with IEPs:
📊 Free IEP Data Collection Sheets
📒 Free IEP Binder for Parents
☑️ IEP Meeting Preparation Kit
🧰 IEP Toolkit for Parents
👩💻 Online Advocacy Training
🙋 Ask an Advocate your IEP Question
🧰 IEP Teacher Toolkit
No excuses--why parents must engage in the IEP process. Because we are the IEP police!
Read more: Parents, You are the IEP Police. Yes, you!
Other ways I can help you with IEPs:
📊 Free IEP Data Collection Sheets
📒 Free IEP Binder for Parents
☑️ IEP Meeting Preparation Kit
🧰 IEP Toolkit for Parents
👩💻 Online Advocacy Training
🙋 Ask an Advocate your IEP Question
🧰 IEP Teacher Toolkit
Part 1 of 2, I'm interviewing Special Education Attorney Steve Jacobson.
We talked about unilateral placements for Special Education, and how to tell when you might need an attorney to get involved with your IEP disputes.
Read: What is IEP Unilateral Placement?
If you are interested in learning more about the firm or to schedule a free consultation with a Special Education Attorney in Pennsylvania, you can click the hyperlinks.
Other ways I can help you with IEPs:
📊 Free IEP Data Collection Sheets
📒 Free IEP Binder for Parents
☑️ IEP Meeting Preparation Kit
🧰 IEP Toolkit for Parents
👩💻 Online Advocacy Training
🙋 Ask an Advocate your IEP Question
🧰 IEP Teacher Toolkit
The Emotional Disturbance Classification--it's way overused and it's got to stop. Here's why classification matters, and what you can and should do about it.
Read: Understanding the Emotional Disturbance Definition and your IEP
Other ways I can help you with IEPs:
📊 Free IEP Data Collection Sheets
📒 Free IEP Binder for Parents
☑️ IEP Meeting Preparation Kit
🧰 IEP Toolkit for Parents
👩💻 Online Advocacy Training
🙋 Ask an Advocate your IEP Question
🧰 IEP Teacher Toolkit
A pediatric neurologist talks with me about kids living with ADHD, the differences between boys and girls, medications and more. #ADHD #DontIEPalone
I have other similar resources on my site, so maybe you're looking for:
- Graphic Organizer (60 free PDFs)
- ADHD To-Do List Templates
- High School Free Printable Study Skills Worksheets
- List of 40 Common 504 accommodations for ADHD
Other ways I can help you with IEPs:
📊 Free IEP Data Collection Sheets
📒 Free IEP Binder for Parents
☑️ IEP Meeting Preparation Kit
🧰 IEP Toolkit for Parents
👩💻 Online Advocacy Training
🙋 Ask an Advocate your IEP Question
🧰 IEP Teacher Toolkit
Understanding GEPA: How Federal Overreach in Education Funding Violates a 50-Year-Old Law
10:43
The Parent Concerns Letter for your IEP
15:17
Why did they do that?
19:13
🚨 Medicaid Cuts, Advocacy, and Why We Can’t Stay Silent 🚨
17:39
ESY-Extended School Year and IEPs
14:21
Can I uninvite someone from my IEP meeting?
9:02
504s are being overused.
8:30
What's the Most Imporant Part of the IEP?
6:44
Why Public Education Isn't a Customer Service Model Explained
20:25
Super Bowl Joy and Political Turmoil: A Balancing Act
18:51
Understanding the Impact of Potential Changes to Department of Education on Special Needs
45:48
IEP Data Collection
27:00
Breaking Down Barriers: Janice Lloyd Discusses Remediation and Support for Dyslexic Students
26:23
Standing Up for Special Education Amidst Political Changes
18:02
How Federal Spending Freeze Affects Disabled Kids' Health Care
18:18
Bonus Episode: IEP Goal Banks and Parent-Teacher Conferences with an IEP
21:50
Speaking Up for My Son's Needs Amid Controversial Autism Narratives
27:54
Three Essential IEP Tasks for Parents Right Now
25:18
How many IEP meetings is too many?
22:38
Tough Love and IEPs: Why Change Starts with You
20:13
Welcome to 2025!
14:30
Parents are the IEP Police
23:22
Talking IEP Unilateral Placements with Attorney Steve Jacobson
42:51
The Emotional Disturbance Classification on IEPs
9:53
Living with ADHD with Dr. Sarah Cheyette, Pediatric Neurologist
52:26