What’s the difference between FAPE and LRE—and why does it matter so much in IEP placement decisions?

In this episode of Special Education Boss®, Karen Mayer Cunningham sits down with national expert Dr. Mitchell Yell to unpack two of the most misunderstood elements of the IEP process: Least Restrictive Environment (LRE) and Free Appropriate Public Education (FAPE).

Whether you’re a parent, educator, or advocate, this conversation offers a deep dive into how schools are (and aren’t) following federal law—especially when it comes to placement, the continuum of services, and ensuring each child receives an appropriate education in the right setting.

👉 You’ll learn:

• The definitions of LRE and FAPE—and how they work together
• Why LRE is not a location (and general ed is not always the answer)
• What schools get wrong about resource rooms and self-contained classrooms
• The difference between “shoehorning” and individualized placement
• What predetermination actually looks like in practice—and why it's a problem
• Why schools can't eliminate parts of the continuum (like resource rooms!)
• How to respond when schools say things like “we don’t offer that here” or “we got rid of resource”

Karen and Dr. Yell also answer dozens of real audience questions—including what to do if your child is being pushed into a program without team discussion, how to handle denials of placement, and why you should always ask for a proper Prior Written Notice.

This episode is a must-listen if you’ve ever wondered:

🧠 “Do they really have to offer a continuum of services?”
🧠 “Can a district just say they don’t do resource anymore?”
🧠 “What if my child is placed without trying general ed first?”

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👩‍⚖️ Hosted by Karen Mayer Cunningham, Advocate & Special Education Boss®
Each week, Karen shares real stories, legal insights, and no-nonsense strategies to help you navigate special education with clarity and confidence.

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