Paraprofessionals change lives—but confusion about their role can lead to serious violations. In this training, Karen Mayer Cunningham, the Special Education Boss®, explains exactly what federal law requires so teams can support students properly and protect FAPE.

What you’ll learn:

• Why paras must work under the direct supervision of a certified teacher
• How to identify when districts are using paras in place of special educators
• What to ask at IEP meetings to verify who is delivering services and how minutes are implemented
• Practical boundaries: data collection, accommodations, medical tasks, inclusion support, pullout, ISS, homebound

Referenced federal sources:

• IDEA (Individuals with Disabilities Education Act) – 34 CFR Part B: https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-34
• ESSA (Every Student Succeeds Act, 2015): https://www.everystudentsucceedsact.org
• No Child Left Behind (historical context): https://www.congress.gov/bill/107th-congress/house-bill/1
• OSEP (Office of Special Education Programs): https://www.ed.gov/about/ed-offices/osers/osep

Next steps:

• Join The Academy for 250+ hours of training and weekly updates:
  https://www.skool.com/special-education-academy/about
• Questions or training requests: [email protected]
  
  

“When we get it right for the child, we get it right for everybody.” — Karen Mayer Cunningham

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✨ When we get it right for the child, we get it right for everybody. ✨

👩‍⚖️ 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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