Literacy Untangled Podcast

By Jennie SjursenEducation Kids & Family

Literacy Untangled Podcast episodes

October 23#81 The One Question That Makes Your School Prove Their Teacher Is Really Trained
Two parents sit in two different IEP meetings at two different schools and hear the exact same sentence: “Don’t worry, the teacher is OG trained.” One of those teachers has years of training and is certified. The other took a short summer course. Both parents walk out with the same answer and no way to tell the difference.
Today, I’m giving you the one question that cuts through that yes or no answer and gets you real information: what certification level does this person hold and through which organization? I walk through why “is she trained?” is the wrong kind of question, what the three different kinds of answers actually mean, and why trained and certified are not the same thing at all.
The focus of this conversation is helping you ask a specific, fact-based question instead of one that can be answered with a reflexive yes, so you know exactly what kind of instruction your child is actually getting.
My free resource, You're Right About Your Struggling Reader: 3 Red Flags When Working with the School, walks you through the three signs that mean it's time to stop waiting and start pushing for more support. Check off what feels true for your family and I'll tell you exactly what it means. Grab it now at https://www.literacyuntangled.com/shifts!
Would you like to understand reports, ask the right questions, and get schools to take you seriously? Together Through Dyslexia 6-month program provides expert mentorship for parents of dyslexics and struggling readers, and you can claim your spot now at https://www.literacyuntangled.com/together-through-dyslexia!
My mini-course, From Lost to Empowered: How to Get Your Struggling Reader: The 3-Step Evaluation Request Blueprint for Parents of Struggling Readers, is available now! This 3-step evaluation request blueprint walks you through everything you need to know, from documenting concerns with the right details to writing the evaluation request letter with language that triggers legal timelines, to handling what to do when schools try to push you off, and so much more. You can break through the barriers NOW and get instant access at https://www.literacyuntangled.com/from-lost-to-empowered.
Topics Covered:
Why asking “is the teacher trained?” or “is this an OG program?” is the wrong kind of question to be asking [2:00]
Why “trained” and “certified” are not the same thing, and a real world comparison that shows the difference [2:36]
The one specific, fact based question to ask instead: what certification level does this person hold and through which organization [3:02]
The three kinds of answers you might hear back and what each one really tells you [4:01]
Why certification isn’t a one-and-done deal, and what staying “current” means for a practitioner’s ongoing training hours [5:19]
A reminder why this isn’t about catching anyone out, rather it’s about knowing what your child’s plan assumes versus what they’re actually receiving [5:39]

Key Takeaways:
A yes or no question like “is she trained?” will almost always get you a yes; the specific question to ask is what certification level someone holds and through which organization.
Trained and certified are not interchangeable: training means coursework; certification means an outside body observed and signed off on the work.
This isn’t about catching a teacher out; it’s about knowing what training your child’s plan assumes so you can see whether that’s actually what they’re getting.

Links & Resources Mentioned:
#80 OG Trained Doesn't Mean What You Think It Means
Orton-Gillingham Academy (AOGPE)

When you're ready to work with me, here are 3 ways I can help you:
Claim your spot now to Together Through Dyslexia, my 6-month program providing expert mentorship for parents of dyslexics and struggling readers!
Subscribe to my Podcast Literacy Untangled Podcast for bimonthly episodes on navigating the dyslexia journey with your kid.
Want 1:1 help from an Orton-Gillingham expert? Book a call to see how I help kids who are struggling to learn how to read.
Have a question or want a certain topic covered? Send an email to [email protected] or a DM on Instagram.
I want to support parents with dyslexic children and get this content in the hands of those who need it most. Click the share button and send away! Thank you.
Listen to the episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or on your favorite podcast platform.

Connect:
- Visit my website
- Sign up for my newsletter
- Follow me on Instagram
- Join me on Facebook
9 min
October 09#80 OG Trained Doesn't Mean What You Think It Means
Your child has an IEP with reading services, months go by, and there's still no progress. When you ask why, the school says, "Don't worry, the teacher is OG trained." It's supposed to feel like reassurance, but those three words can mean almost anything.
Today, I'm breaking down what "OG trained" actually means, the real difference between training and certification, and why a teacher's label on paper doesn't guarantee the level of skill in the room with your child. As well, I walk you through the four levels of Orton-Gillingham Academy certification, so you know exactly what to ask about next time you hear those words in a meeting.
The focus of this conversation is helping you understand that "OG trained" is the beginning of the conversation, not the end of it and that you're allowed to want to know more about who's actually teaching your child.
My free resource, You're Right About Your Struggling Reader: 3 Red Flags When Working with the School, walks you through the three signs that mean it's time to stop waiting and start pushing for more support. Check off what feels true for your family and I'll tell you exactly what it means. Grab it now at https://www.literacyuntangled.com/shifts!
Would you like to understand reports, ask the right questions, and get schools to take you seriously? Together Through Dyslexia 6-month program provides expert mentorship for parents of dyslexics and struggling readers, and you can claim your spot now at https://www.literacyuntangled.com/together-through-dyslexia!
My mini-course, From Lost to Empowered: How to Get Your Struggling Reader: The 3-Step Evaluation Request Blueprint for Parents of Struggling Readers, is available now! This 3-step evaluation request blueprint walks you through everything you need to know, from documenting concerns with the right details to writing the evaluation request letter with language that triggers legal timelines, to handling what to do when schools try to push you off, and so much more. You can break through the barriers NOW and get instant access at https://www.literacyuntangled.com/from-lost-to-empowered.
Topics Covered:
Why the level of training behind an "OG trained" teacher matters so much [1:33]
Orton-Gillingham is an approach, not a program, and what this means about its effectiveness [2:25]
How to find out how much training is actually behind a teacher's "OG trained" label [2:45]
The four levels of Orton-Gillingham Academy certification and the hours of coursework and supervised teaching that separate each one [4:24]
Why "OG trained" is only the beginning of the conversation, not the end of it [6:54]

Key Takeaways:
"OG trained" can describe anything from a weekend workshop to someone with hundreds of hours of supervised teaching
Certification means an outside organization verified the teacher's skill; training alone doesn't.
The right fit matters: a child who needs intensive, one-on-one support needs a teacher certified at that level, not just someone labeled "OG trained."

Links & Resources Mentioned:
Orton-Gillingham Academy (AOGPE)
Academic Language Therapy Association (ALTA)
Wilson Language Training
Slingerland Literacy Institute
Institute for Multisensory Education (IMSE)
International Dyslexia Association (IDA)
IMSLEC

When you're ready to work with me, here are 3 ways I can help you:
Claim your spot now to Together Through Dyslexia, my 6-month program providing expert mentorship for parents of dyslexics and struggling readers!
Subscribe to my Podcast Literacy Untangled Podcast for bimonthly episodes on navigating the dyslexia journey with your kid.
Want 1:1 help from an Orton-Gillingham expert? Book a call to see how I help kids who are struggling to learn how to read.
Have a question or want a certain topic covered? Send an email to [email protected] or a DM on Instagram.
I want to support parents with dyslexic children and get this content in the hands of those who need it most. Click the share button and send away! Thank you.
Listen to the episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or on your favorite podcast platform.

Connect:
- Visit my website
- Sign up for my newsletter
- Follow me on Instagram
- Join me on Facebook
10 min
September 25#79 Stop Asking for Dyslexia Testing - Ask for This Instead
When your child is struggling to read, asking the school to "test for dyslexia" feels like the obvious first step, but it might be the exact request that gets you a no.
Today, I'm breaking down why the words you use when requesting an evaluation matter so much, the difference between a medical diagnosis and an educational disability category, plus more.
The focus of this conversation is giving you the exact language to use so your request can't be brushed aside…because the right words, in writing, start the clock and open the door.
My free resource, You're Right About Your Struggling Reader: 3 Red Flags When Working with the School, walks you through the three signs that mean it's time to stop waiting and start pushing for more support. Check off what feels true for your family and I'll tell you exactly what it means. Grab it now at https://www.literacyuntangled.com/shifts!
Would you like to understand reports, ask the right questions, and get schools to take you seriously? Together Through Dyslexia 6-month program provides expert mentorship for parents of dyslexics and struggling readers, and you can claim your spot now at https://www.literacyuntangled.com/together-through-dyslexia!
My mini-course, From Lost to Empowered: How to Get Your Struggling Reader: The 3-Step Evaluation Request Blueprint for Parents of Struggling Readers, is available now! This 3-step evaluation request blueprint walks you through everything you need to know, from documenting concerns with the right details to writing the evaluation request letter with language that triggers legal timelines, to handling what to do when schools try to push you off, and so much more. You can break through the barriers NOW and get instant access at https://www.literacyuntangled.com/from-lost-to-empowered.

Topics Covered:
The key reason to stop asking for dyslexia testing [2:02]

Why asking for a full and comprehensive evaluation works better than naming a specific category [3:28]

The 8 different areas a full comprehensive evaluation should cover [3:52]

The way that putting your evaluation request in writing protects your paper trail, and starts the legal clock [4:36]

Tips for using the SHIFT method to turn evaluation data into a real plan [5:50]

Key Takeaways:
Dyslexia is a real medical and legal term, but asking for "dyslexia testing" isn't the request that gets your child evaluated.

Naming one narrow category can accidentally limit what the school looks at.

Put your request in writing. An email creates the paper trail that starts the legal clock, but a phone call or hallway conversation doesn't.

When you're ready to work with me, here are 3 ways I can help you:
Claim your spot now to Together Through Dyslexia, my 6-month program providing expert mentorship for parents of dyslexics and struggling readers!
Subscribe to my Podcast Literacy Untangled Podcast for bimonthly episodes on navigating the dyslexia journey with your kid.
Want 1:1 help from an Orton-Gillingham expert? Book a call to see how I help kids who are struggling to learn how to read.
Have a question or want a certain topic covered? Send an email to [email protected] or a DM on Instagram.
I want to support parents with dyslexic children and get this content in the hands of those who need it most. Click the share button and send away! Thank you.
Listen to the episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or on your favorite podcast platform.

Connect:
- Visit my website
- Sign up for my newsletter
- Follow me on Instagram
- Join me on Facebook
8 min
May 22#78 Moving Out of State With a Dyslexic Child: What Happens to Their IEP?
Moving out of state with a child who has an IEP can feel like starting from scratch, but federal law says otherwise. The problem is that while IDEA travels with you, the procedures, criteria, and even the language used to classify your child's disability can shift dramatically depending on where you land.
Today, I'm breaking down what actually happens to your child's IEP when you cross state lines, and why that 30-day transition meeting is often too soon for anyone to make informed decisions about your child's services. I walk you through the federal protections that still apply, the truth about whether a new evaluation is actually required, and why the specificity of your child's eligibility classification matters more than most parents realize.
The focus of this conversation is making sure you don't lose ground during a high-stakes transition. Remember, a new state doesn't mean starting from zero - but it does mean you need to be paying attention!
My free resource, Is AI Writing Your Struggling Reader's IEP?, walks you through exactly what to look for when you open your child’s document and what the research says about the current state of IEP quality. Grab it now at https://www.literacyuntangled.com/ai-iep!
Would you like to understand reports, ask the right questions, and get schools to take you seriously? Together Through Dyslexia 6-month program provides expert mentorship for parents of dyslexics and struggling readers, and you can claim your spot now at https://www.literacyuntangled.com/together-through-dyslexia!
My mini-course, From Lost to Empowered: How to Get Your Struggling Reader: The 3-Step Evaluation Request Blueprint for Parents of Struggling Readers, is available now! This 3-step evaluation request blueprint walks you through everything you need to know, from documenting concerns with the right details to writing the evaluation request letter with language that triggers legal timelines, to handling what to do when schools try to push you off, and so much more. You can break through the barriers NOW and get instant access at https://www.literacyuntangled.com/from-lost-to-empowered.

Topics Covered:
What can be influenced by your new state on top of the federal foundation, and why knowing your state's specific special education regulations matters [3:18]

Key reasons that transition IEP meetings around the 30-day mark don't give schools enough time to truly know your child, and why you shouldn't feel rushed to sign anything [3:52]

The truth about re-evaluations when moving out of state: you don't automatically need a new one just because you crossed state lines [5:06]

The critical difference between "SLD dyslexia" and just "SLD," and why specific eligibility language matters for every teacher working with your child [6:09]

The Exceptional Family Member Program (EFMP) for military families navigating out-of-state moves, and what support is available at your installation [8:16]

Why your child's complete records are your most reliable constant through every move, and what documents you need before transitioning to a new state [9:21]

Key Takeaways:
IDEA is federal, but states build their own procedures on top, and some build much more than others.

A new evaluation isn't automatic just because you moved states; if it's within three years, it should still be valid.

"SLD dyslexia" is far more protective than just "SLD"; specificity follows your child through every transition.

Links & Resources Mentioned:
Individuals With Disabilities Education Act (IDEA)
Office of Special Education and Rehabilitative Services (OSERS)
EFMP - Exceptional Family Member Program
#77 My Dyslexic Child Is Changing Schools: Will Their IEP Stay the Same

When you're ready to work with me, here are 3 ways I can help you:
Claim your spot now to Together Through Dyslexia, my 6-month program providing expert mentorship for parents of dyslexics and struggling readers!
Subscribe to my Podcast Literacy Untangled Podcast for bimonthly episodes on navigating the dyslexia journey with your kid.
Want 1:1 help from an Orton-Gillingham expert? Book a call to see how I help kids who are struggling to learn how to read.
Have a question or want a certain topic covered? Send an email to [email protected] or a DM on Instagram.
I want to support parents with dyslexic children and get this content in the hands of those who need it most. Click the share button and send away! Thank you.
Listen to the episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or on your favorite podcast platform.

Connect:
- Visit my website
- Sign up for my newsletter
- Follow me on Instagram
- Join me on Facebook
12 min
May 08#77 My Dyslexic Child Is Changing Schools: Will Their IEP Stay the Same
You’ve finally reached a place of peace with your child's IEP, only to have a school move throw everything back into question. In the middle of a transition meeting, a new team member uses the word "comparable," and while it sounds like a promise of continuity, it often acts as a trapdoor for the very services you fought so hard to secure.
Today, I am exposing the "comparable services" trap and explaining why that single word can lead to a drop in the frequency and intensity of your child’s literacy support. I walk you through the federal protections under IDEA that keep your current IEP active, the specific red flags to look for when moving between districts, and why your home records are the ultimate evidence when sitting across from a team that has never seen your child struggle.
The focus of this conversation is putting the power back in your hands during a high-stakes transition. We’re talking about how to conduct a line-by-line audit of your child's new plan, why you should never sign a document on the spot, and how to ensure the individual child doesn't get lost in the administrative shuffle. Remember, your child’s progress shouldn't be the price of a new zip code or a new building!
My free resource, Is AI Writing Your Struggling Reader's IEP?, walks you through exactly what to look for when you open your child’s document and what the research says about the current state of IEP quality. Grab it now at https://www.literacyuntangled.com/ai-iep!
Would you like to understand reports, ask the right questions, and get schools to take you seriously? Together Through Dyslexia 6-month program provides expert mentorship for parents of dyslexics and struggling readers, and you can claim your spot now at https://www.literacyuntangled.com/together-through-dyslexia!
My mini-course, From Lost to Empowered: How to Get Your Struggling Reader: The 3-Step Evaluation Request Blueprint for Parents of Struggling Readers, is available now! This 3-step evaluation request blueprint walks you through everything you need to know, from documenting concerns with the right details to writing the evaluation request letter with language that triggers legal timelines, to handling what to do when schools try to push you off, and so much more. You can break through the barriers NOW and get instant access at https://www.literacyuntangled.com/from-lost-to-empowered.
Topics Covered:
The legal reality of the "federal floor" and why your child’s current IEP stays in effect until a new one is developed and signed by you [1:55]
Why moving schools within the same district often has a smoother infrastructure, and what to expect when shifting from elementary to middle school [3:05]
The risks of moving to a new district, where different resources and service delivery models can lead to your child's IEP being questioned or changed [3:47]
The critical difference between "identical" and "comparable" services, and how that linguistic room for interpretation can lead to a drop in the intensity of your child’s support [4:56]
Why your child's records are your primary evidence, and the importance of having evaluations and progress notes in hand before the transition meeting begins [6:44]

Key Takeaways:
Federal law requires "comparable" services when a child changes schools, but this serves only as the floor.
The move to a new district is a significant transition where a new team may question previous services or eligibility.
The term "comparable" is open to interpretation and often shifts toward what is convenient for the school.

Links & Resources Mentioned:
Individuals With Disabilities Education Act (IDEA)

When you're ready to work with me, here are 3 ways I can help you:
Claim your spot now to Together Through Dyslexia, my 6-month program providing expert mentorship for parents of dyslexics and struggling readers!
Subscribe to my Podcast Literacy Untangled Podcast for bimonthly episodes on navigating the dyslexia journey with your kid.
Want 1:1 help from an Orton-Gillingham expert? Book a call to see how I help kids who are struggling to learn how to read.
Have a question or want a certain topic covered? Send an email to [email protected] or a DM on Instagram.
I want to support parents with dyslexic children and get this content in the hands of those who need it most. Click the share button and send away! Thank you.
Listen to the episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or on your favorite podcast platform.

Connect:
- Visit my website
- Sign up for my newsletter
- Follow me on Instagram
- Join me on Facebook
10 min
April 24#76 The Summer IEP Service Your Dyslexic Child May Already Qualify For And Why No One Brings It Up
You’re sitting in your child’s spring IEP meeting, and the team moves through the Extended School Year (ESY) section in about 30 seconds. They mention that regression isn't a concern, check a box, and move on. You might not have pushed back in the moment, but that’s usually because you didn’t realize there was anything to push back on, and that is exactly what we are fixing today.
In this episode, I reveal why ESY is so much more than just summer school or a reading camp, we dive into the legal foundation of IDEA, the logistical hurdles that often lead schools to avoid recommending summer services, and more.
My goal today is to give you the language and the framework you need to open that door back up. ESY is not an afterthought or a "nice to have"; it is an individualized service designed to ensure your child has a free, appropriate public education. It’s time to make sure that 30-second check-box actually reflects what your child needs to succeed.
My free resource, Is AI Writing Your Struggling Reader's IEP?, walks you through exactly what to look for when you open your child’s document and what the research says about the current state of IEP quality. Grab it now at https://www.literacyuntangled.com/ai-iep!
Would you like to understand reports, ask the right questions, and get schools to take you seriously? Together Through Dyslexia 6-month program provides expert mentorship for parents of dyslexics and struggling readers, and you can claim your spot now at https://www.literacyuntangled.com/together-through-dyslexia!
My mini-course, From Lost to Empowered: How to Get Your Struggling Reader: The 3-Step Evaluation Request Blueprint for Parents of Struggling Readers, is available now! This 3-step evaluation request blueprint walks you through everything you need to know, from documenting concerns with the right details to writing the evaluation request letter with language that triggers legal timelines, to handling what to do when schools try to push you off, and so much more. You can break through the barriers NOW and get instant access at https://www.literacyuntangled.com/from-lost-to-empowered.
Topics Covered:
Why ESY often gets only 30 seconds of airtime during a spring IEP meeting, and the logistical reasons the school might move through this section quickly [2:45]
Understanding regression and recoupment and why it’s not just about what a child loses over the summer [3:41]
How fragile, hard-won momentum in reading often can't survive a 12-week gap without continued support [4:07]
Why emergent skills and breakthrough opportunities are critical windows that shouldn't be derailed by a long summer break [4:26]
The Matthew Effect in reading and how gaps in services and long breaks without support can significantly widen the distance between struggling readers and their peers [4:59]
The ways in which medical, behavioral, and individual factors play a role in making the continuity of services critical [6:17]
Why addressing interfering behaviors during the summer is essential to prevent escalation and ensure a smoother transition into the fall semester [6:30]
A reminder to check your specific state regulations to understand the language used at your IEP table [6:46]

Key Takeaways:
Extended School Year is a specialized service designed to meet your child’s specific IEP goals, not just a one-size-fits-all summer school.
While schools often look at whether a child will lose skills, they must also consider "breakthrough opportunities" where a long break could derail fragile, emerging momentum.
While federal law sets the foundation, every state has its own specific regulations and standards for how ESY eligibility is determined.

Links & Resources Mentioned:
Individuals With Disabilities Education Act (IDEA)

When you're ready to work with me, here are 3 ways I can help you:
Claim your spot now to Together Through Dyslexia, my 6-month program providing expert mentorship for parents of dyslexics and struggling readers!
Subscribe to my Podcast Literacy Untangled Podcast for bimonthly episodes on navigating the dyslexia journey with your kid.
Want 1:1 help from an Orton-Gillingham expert? Book a call to see how I help kids who are struggling to learn how to read.
Have a question or want a certain topic covered? Send an email to [email protected] or a DM on Instagram.
I want to support parents with dyslexic children and get this content in the hands of those who need it most. Click the share button and send away! Thank you.
Listen to the episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or on your favorite podcast platform.

Connect:
- Visit my website
- Sign up for my newsletter
- Follow me on Instagram
- Join me on Facebook
9 min
April 10#75 Is AI Writing Your Child's IEP: What Every Parent Needs to Know
When you open your child’s most recent IEP and read through the goals, does it actually sound like your kid? Or does it feel a little generic, like it could have been written about any student with a reading difficulty? If something feels off, you might be right! There’s a quiet shift happening in special education classrooms, and today we’re talking about the two main reasons why IEPs are losing their individuality: a gap in teacher training and the sudden, massive rise of AI-generated documents.
Let this be a reminder that AI doesn't know your child. It knows patterns, it knows professional-sounding language, but it doesn't know what your child actually needs to succeed. Today, we’re looking at how to spot a generic IEP, why a plausible-sounding PLAAFP can be a trap, and how you can ensure your child’s legal documents stay focused on the individual human being sitting in front of you.
My free resource, Is AI Writing Your Struggling Reader's IEP?, walks you through exactly what to look for when you open your child’s document and what the research says about the current state of IEP quality. Grab it now at https://www.literacyuntangled.com/ai-iep!
Would you like to understand reports, ask the right questions, and get schools to take you seriously? Together Through Dyslexia 6-month program provides expert mentorship for parents of dyslexics and struggling readers, and you can claim your spot now at https://www.literacyuntangled.com/together-through-dyslexia!
My mini-course, From Lost to Empowered: How to Get Your Struggling Reader: The 3-Step Evaluation Request Blueprint for Parents of Struggling Readers, is available now! This 3-step evaluation request blueprint walks you through everything you need to know, from documenting concerns with the right details to writing the evaluation request letter with language that triggers legal timelines, to handling what to do when schools try to push you off, and so much more. You can break through the barriers NOW and get instant access at https://www.literacyuntangled.com/from-lost-to-empowered.
Topics Covered:
The gap between knowing the law and the clinical reasoning required to build a plan for the complex individual human being sitting in front of you [1:47]
A look at the numbers and why more than half of special education teachers are now turning to AI to help manage the paperwork burden [2:50]
Why it’s important to realize that will AI knows what an IEP should look like, it doesn't actually know your child [3:43]
Breaking down the PLAAFP and how a vague description guarantees a vague plan [4:37]
How to spot a generic, plausible-sounding PLAAFP even when the language looks professional and complete [5:41]
The hidden risks of using AI as a parent to navigate the process and why a confident answer isn't the same as an accurate one [5:56]
How to get your hands on my new free resource: Is AI Writing Your Struggling Reader's IEP? [7:19]

Key Takeaways:
Federal law calls it an “Individualized Education Program” for a reason. If the goals could apply to any student in the building, they aren't good enough for your child.
AI is excellent at producing plausible, high-quality text, but it’s based on patterns rather than your child’s specific evaluation data and learning profile.
The PLAAFP is the engine of the IEP and when present levels are vague, the entire document loses its ability to drive meaningful progress.

When you're ready to work with me, here are 3 ways I can help you:
Claim your spot now to Together Through Dyslexia, my 6-month program providing expert mentorship for parents of dyslexics and struggling readers!
Subscribe to my Podcast Literacy Untangled Podcast for bimonthly episodes on navigating the dyslexia journey with your kid.
Want 1:1 help from an Orton-Gillingham expert? Book a call to see how I help kids who are struggling to learn how to read.
Have a question or want a certain topic covered? Send an email to [email protected] or a DM on Instagram.
I want to support parents with dyslexic children and get this content in the hands of those who need it most. Click the share button and send away! Thank you.
Listen to the episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or on your favorite podcast platform.

Connect:
- Visit my website
- Sign up for my newsletter
- Follow me on Instagram
- Join me on Facebook
9 min
March 27#74 What Least Restrictive Environment Really Means And How Schools Get It Wrong
You’re sitting in an IEP meeting and someone says, "We need to consider LRE," and everyone around the table nods like they just shared a deep universal truth. Meanwhile, you're wondering if you missed a memo, or worse, you’re realizing that this one little acronym is being used to make a massive decision about where your child spends their day. Today, I’m stripping away the jargon to talk about what Least Restrictive Environment actually is, and more importantly, how it’s being misused to justify what’s convenient for the school rather than what’s right for your child.
Whether you're being told your child has to stay in Gen Ed at all costs or being pressured into a separate setting without the data to back it up, this episode is about moving the conversation from a blanket district policy to an individualized determination.
Would you like to understand reports, ask the right questions, and get schools to take you seriously? Together Through Dyslexia 6-month program provides expert mentorship for parents of dyslexics and struggling readers, and you can claim your spot now at https://www.literacyuntangled.com/together-through-dyslexia!
My mini-course, From Lost to Empowered: How to Get Your Struggling Reader: The 3-Step Evaluation Request Blueprint for Parents of Struggling Readers, is available now! This 3-step evaluation request blueprint walks you through everything you need to know, from documenting concerns with the right details to writing the evaluation request letter with language that triggers legal timelines, to handling what to do when schools try to push you off, and so much more. You can break through the barriers NOW and get instant access at https://www.literacyuntangled.com/from-lost-to-empowered.
Topics Covered:
What "Least Restrictive Environment" actually means under the law, and why the word "appropriate" is the most important part of the sentence [2:53]
How schools often weaponize LRE as a blanket policy to justify whatever placement is most convenient for their budget or staffing [3:45]
A walkthrough of the full range of settings that many parents never even know are options [4:57]
Why your child’s specific data and IEP goals should dictate their placement, rather than a district’s "full inclusion" philosophy [8:35]
How to use the mention of LRE as a starting point for deeper questions rather than the final word in an IEP meeting [11:20]

Key Takeaways:
LRE isn't just about where your child's desk is located; it’s about where they can actually make meaningful progress.
There’s a "Convenience Trap” that comes into play and schools often use LRE as a revolving door justification.
LRE is just the beginning and you have the right to ask for the specific data, the alternative placements they considered on the continuum, and the evidence for why other options were rejected.

When you're ready to work with me, here are 3 ways I can help you:
Claim your spot now to Together Through Dyslexia, my 6-month program providing expert mentorship for parents of dyslexics and struggling readers!
Subscribe to my Podcast Literacy Untangled Podcast for bimonthly episodes on navigating the dyslexia journey with your kid.
Want 1:1 help from an Orton-Gillingham expert? Book a call to see how I help kids who are struggling to learn how to read.
Have a question or want a certain topic covered? Send an email to [email protected] or a DM on Instagram.
I want to support parents with dyslexic children and get this content in the hands of those who need it most. Click the share button and send away! Thank you.
Listen to the episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or on your favorite podcast platform.

Connect:
- Visit my website
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15 min
March 13#73 Pull-Out, Push-In, or Pulled Apart: What Your Child's Service Delivery Model Really Means
When you’re in an IEP meeting, it’s easy to focus solely on the "30 minutes twice a week" and nod along as the school lists off terms like resource room, push-in, or consultation. But here is the hard truth: those aren't just administrative logistics, they are the exact mechanisms that dictate whether your child’s intervention will actually move the needle or just fade into the background.
In this episode, we’re peeling back the layers on service delivery models to understand the "where," the "who," and the "how" of your child’s support. We’re moving past what’s convenient for the school and their schedule, and looking at what the research actually says about effective, systematic instruction.
It’s time to stop nodding along to terms you don't fully understand and start advocating for the support your child actually deserves, because that’s what truly matters.
Would you like to understand reports, ask the right questions, and get schools to take you seriously? Together Through Dyslexia 6-month program provides expert mentorship for parents of dyslexics and struggling readers, and you can claim your spot now at https://www.literacyuntangled.com/together-through-dyslexia!
My mini-course, From Lost to Empowered: How to Get Your Struggling Reader: The 3-Step Evaluation Request Blueprint for Parents of Struggling Readers, is available now! This 3-step evaluation request blueprint walks you through everything you need to know, from documenting concerns with the right details to writing the evaluation request letter with language that triggers legal timelines, to handling what to do when schools try to push you off, and so much more. You can break through the barriers NOW and get instant access at https://www.literacyuntangled.com/from-lost-to-empowered.
Topics Covered:
A realistic look at the pros and cons of moving your child to a resource room versus keeping them in the general education classroom [2:21]
What these terms actually mean in practice, and why consultation might not be enough for a child who needs intensive, systematic intervention [2:58]
Why small group size and skill-matching are the "invisible" details that determine if your child is actually making progress [3:28]
Why there is no one-size-fits-all model, and how to identify whether your child needs a quiet, distraction-free space or support with transitions to stay engaged [4:03]
A real breakdown of transition time, packing up, and group sharing, and why your child might only be getting 20 minutes of actual instruction [6:29]
How to look past the logistics to determine if your child actually needs quiet, intensive support or in-class help to navigate their day successfully [7:57]
The way to shift from nodding along to asking powerful, specific questions about group size and missed classroom instruction [10:14]

Key Takeaways:
"Logistics" like pull-out or push-in services, aren't just details, they are the critical factors that determine whether your child's intervention will actually move the needle.
Follow the minutes and always calculate the actual instructional time your child receives.
Your child’s IEP must be built on their specific learning profile, not staffing convenience for them.

When you're ready to work with me, here are 3 ways I can help you:
Claim your spot now to Together Through Dyslexia, my 6-month program providing expert mentorship for parents of dyslexics and struggling readers!
Subscribe to my Podcast Literacy Untangled Podcast for bimonthly episodes on navigating the dyslexia journey with your kid.
Want 1:1 help from an Orton-Gillingham expert? Book a call to see how I help kids who are struggling to learn how to read.
Have a question or want a certain topic covered? Send an email to [email protected] or a DM on Instagram.
I want to support parents with dyslexic children and get this content in the hands of those who need it most. Click the share button and send away! Thank you.
Listen to the episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or on your favorite podcast platform.
Connect:
- Visit my website
- Sign up for my newsletter
- Follow me on Instagram
- Join me on Facebook
13 min
February 27#72 When 'Just Trust Us' Isn't Enough: The Prior Written Notice No One Explains to You
Have you ever left an IEP meeting feeling stuck? Maybe you asked for a specific service or accommodation, and the team said no? Or worse, they gave you a vague "let’s table that for now?” You’re often left feeling like the conversation is over, but I’m here to tell you that’s actually not how the law works.
In this episode, I’m pulling back the curtain on Prior Written Notice (PWN), the most powerful tool in your advocacy toolkit that nobody tells you about. We’re moving past the "just trust us" culture of school meetings and diving into why this legal requirement is your best defense against vague explanations and stalled progress.
Whether you are currently facing a denial of services or just want to be prepared for your next meeting, I want to provide the strategic roadmap you need to turn a "no" into a documented trail of accountability. So grab your coffee and your notebook, because it’s time to move from "I didn't know that existed" to "I know exactly what to do with this."
Would you like to understand reports, ask the right questions, and get schools to take you seriously? Together Through Dyslexia 6-month program provides expert mentorship for parents of dyslexics and struggling readers, and you can claim your spot now at https://www.literacyuntangled.com/together-through-dyslexia!
My mini-course, From Lost to Empowered: How to Get Your Struggling Reader: The 3-Step Evaluation Request Blueprint for Parents of Struggling Readers, is available now! This 3-step evaluation request blueprint walks you through everything you need to know, from documenting concerns with the right details to writing the evaluation request letter with language that triggers legal timelines, to handling what to do when schools try to push you off, and so much more. You can break through the barriers NOW and get instant access at https://www.literacyuntangled.com/from-lost-to-empowered.
Topics Covered:
A clear breakdown of what the Prior Written Notice (PWN) document is and why it is a mandatory legal requirement, not a courtesy [2:04]
What specific things makes PWN so powerful [3:48]
Key scenarios where this document becomes a game-changer, from evaluation denials to placement changes [5:33]
The "hidden" right you have to request this documentation even if the school doesn't offer it or mention it [7:15]
How your advocacy shifts once you stop accepting "no" as a conversation ender and start building a documented trail [7:36]
Why PWN is the ultimate tool for transparency and accountability, and how it moves you from being one step behind to being a strategic partner [8:43]

Key Takeaways:
A refusal from the school isn't a closed door; it is simply the point where the documentation must begin.
By using Prior Written Notice, you shift the entire conversation away from personal opinions and back to the specific assessments and data that your child’s services are legally required to be based on.
The Power of the Paper Trail: The most effective advocacy happens in writing.

Links & Resources Mentioned:
IDEA (Federal Special Education Law)
#71 Why You Left That IEP Meeting Feeling Like You Got Played And How to Never Let It Happen Again

When you're ready to work with me, here are 3 ways I can help you:
Claim your spot now to Together Through Dyslexia, my 6-month program providing expert mentorship for parents of dyslexics and struggling readers!
Subscribe to my Podcast Literacy Untangled Podcast for bimonthly episodes on navigating the dyslexia journey with your kid.
Want 1:1 help from an Orton-Gillingham expert? Book a call to see how I help kids who are struggling to learn how to read.
Have a question or want a certain topic covered? Send an email to [email protected] or a DM on Instagram.
I want to support parents with dyslexic children and get this content in the hands of those who need it most. Click the share button and send away! Thank you.
Listen to the episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or on your favorite podcast platform.

Connect:
- Visit my website
- Sign up for my newsletter
- Follow me on Instagram
- Join me on Facebook
11 min

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Does your child struggle with reading and writing? Do you suspect they have dyslexia? Real world answers to all your questions about dyslexia and ways to help your child is exactly what your get when…

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