SpecialEd, IEPs, 504s, Oh my! Conversations with DCSEAC

Understanding Special Education in Douglas County: A Conversation with Liza Meier In this episode of 'SpecialEd, IEPs, 504s, Oh my: Conversations with DCSEAC,' host Aleia Mastroianni sits down with Liza Meier, the Executive Director of Special Education in Douglas County School District (DCSD). Together with DCSEAC board members, they discuss Liza's role, her approach to special education, and the impact of her team on students and families. Liza shares her journey into education, the importance of family-school relationships, and the three core tenets guiding her team: consistent communication, fostering relationships, and embracing continuous improvement. This episode provides valuable insights into the strategic goals and ongoing challenges within the district's special education framework.

00:00 Introduction to Special Education in Douglas County

00:13 Meet Liza Meier: Executive Director of Special Education

01:42 Understanding the Role of Special Education Coordinators

03:02 Liza Meier's Journey into Special Education

03:54 The Importance of Family-School Relationships 06:58 Goals and Priorities for Special Education in DCSD

09:23 Challenges and Changes in Special Education

12:39 Collaboration and Professional Development

16:07 Accessing Special Education Services

17:40 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

DCSD Special Education Website: Director and Coordinators Contact Information

https://www.dcsdk12.org/about/departments/special-education/directors-coordinators

Podcast Title: Decoding Dyslexia Part 2

Episode Summary: In this follow-up episode, host Meredith continues the conversation on dyslexia with district specialist Lynni Nordheim, joined by Tashia and Aleia. The panel dives deeper into Colorado’s new universal dyslexia screening law, practical strategies for supporting students, and the emotional journey of families navigating dyslexia in the school system.

Key Topics Covered:

• Colorado’s Dyslexia Legislation:
  • Overview of Senate Bill 25-200 and its impact on universal screening for K-3 students.
  • How the law is changing district practices and teacher training.
• Screening and Support Beyond Early Grades:
  • What happens for students outside the K-3 screening window.
  • The importance of ongoing support and intervention for older students.
• Practical Advice for Parents:
  • How to advocate for your child if you suspect dyslexia.
  • The difference between school screenings and private evaluations.
  • Navigating IEPs, 504s, and Read Plans.
• Teacher Training and Classroom Strategies:
  • The district’s efforts to train middle and high school teachers in structured literacy.
  • Addressing the social-emotional needs of students with reading challenges.
  • The value of honest conversations and building trust between teachers, students, and families.
• Accommodations vs. Remediation:
  • Balancing tools like audiobooks and extra time with the need for direct reading instruction.
  • Encouraging student self-advocacy and individualized support.
• Parent and Student Stories:
  • Real-life examples of advocacy, success, and the ongoing challenges families face.
  • Tips for building strong partnerships with teachers and school staff.

Resources Mentioned:

• DCSEAC website: DCSEAC.org
• Contact info: [email protected]
• https://www.dcsdk12.org/about/departments/special-education/directors-coordinators

Connect with Us:

• Follow, like, and share this podcast to help spread awareness.
• Reach out with questions, feedback, or topic suggestions for future episodes.

Thank you for listening! If you found this episode helpful, please share it with other parents, educators, and advocates. Stay tuned for more conversations on supporting students with dyslexia and learning differences.

Episode Show Notes

Episode Title: Understanding Dyslexia: Myths, Realities, and Empowerment

Episode Summary: In this episode, we explore the world of dyslexia—debunking common myths, highlighting the unique strengths of dyslexic thinkers, and offering practical advice for parents, educators, and individuals. Our discussion reframes dyslexia not as a deficit, but as a different operating system for the brain—one that is powerful, creative, and processes language in its own unique way.

Key Topics Covered:

• What dyslexia is (and what it isn’t)
• Common myths and misconceptions about dyslexia
• The strengths and creative advantages of dyslexic minds
• Early signs and how to identify dyslexia in children and adults
• Strategies for supporting dyslexic learners at home and in the classroom
• The importance of self-advocacy and building confidence
• Resources and tools for ongoing support

Notable Quotes:

• “It is not a deficit. It's a difference in an operating system, a brain that is powerful and creative.”
• “Dyslexia is surrounded by myths, but it’s really about how the brain processes written language.”

Resources Mentioned:

• Wilson® Professional Learning Details
• https://www.dcsdk12.org/about/departments/special-education/dyslexia
• https://leg.colorado.gov/bills/sb25-200and the https://www.cde.state.co.us/coloradoliteracy/sb-25-200-summary-of-dyslexia-read-act-requirements.

Call to Action: If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, rate, and review our podcast. Share this episode with someone who might benefit from learning more about dyslexia. For more resources, visit our website or follow us on social media.

Connect with Us:

• Website: Dcseac.org
• Instagram: @DCSEAC_CO
• tiKTok: DCSEAC
• Email:[email protected]

In this episode of 'SpecialEd IEPs, 504s, Oh my: Conversations with DCSEAC,' Aleia Mastroianni, Courtney Nangle, and Lisa Graham, the Director of Early Childhood Education, discuss key issues related to early childhood education and the special education services available in Douglas County. Topics include the appropriateness of schools discussing potential disabilities with parents, the evaluation process for learning differences, preschool suspensions, and educational eligibility criteria. They also clarify the differences between medical diagnoses and educational eligibility, explain the IDEA Parts B and C for early intervention, and provide insights into the structure and benefits of Douglas County School District’s preschool programs. Emphasis is placed on the accessible, free, and high-quality support available to all preschool children, and the importance of a collaborative approach between educational staff and parents.

DCSD Preschool Page

https://www.dcsdk12.org/schools-academics/schools/preschool

DCSD ChildFind Page

https://www.dcsdk12.org/about/departments/early-childhood-education/child-find-screening-evals-3-5

CDC Childhood Milestones Page

https://www.cdc.gov/act-early/milestones/index.html

In this episode of 'SpecialEd, IEPs, 504s, Oh My: Conversations with DCSEAC,' hosts Aleia and Courtney discuss the significance of early childhood education with Lisa Graham, Director of Early Childhood Education in Douglas County. They highlight the critical role of preschool in supporting children with disabilities, speech delays, dyslexia, and behavioral challenges. The conversation covers Lisa’s extensive background, the philosophy and mission of DCSD's early childhood program, and the importance of early identification of developmental differences. They also discuss the emotional journey parents face, the benefits of inclusive education, and offer insights into recognizing early signs of developmental delays.

DCSD Preschool Page

https://www.dcsdk12.org/schools-academics/schools/preschool

DCSD ChildFind Page

https://www.dcsdk12.org/about/departments/early-childhood-education/child-find-screening-evals-3-5

CDC Childhood Milestones Page

https://www.cdc.gov/act-early/milestones/index.html

Show Notes: Oh My! The Functional Behavior Assessment

Episode Overview: In this final segment of the three-part series, Meredith and Tashia are joined by Dr. Stephanie Crawford (Director of Mental Health), Dr. Bernadette Pigeon (Mental Health Coordinator), and Ellen Kerkoff (Mental Health Lead) to demystify the Functional Behavior Assessment (FBA) process in schools. The discussion covers when and why an FBA is used, how it differs from other evaluations, and what parents can expect.

Key Topics Covered:

• What is a Functional Behavior Assessment (FBA)?
• Signs a student might need an evaluation beyond academics
• When and why an FBA is triggered
• The difference between an FBA and a psycho-educational evaluation
• The process for parents to request a Behavior Intervention Plan (BIP)
• Addressing safety concerns and behavioral patterns in students
• FBA and BIP eligibility for general education, 504, and special education students
• The role of behavioral RTI (Response to Intervention)
• The importance of individualized support and inclusion for all students

Guest Introductions:

• Dr. Stephanie Crawford: Director of Mental Health, oversees the district’s mental health team and crisis response.
• Dr. Bernadette Pigeon: Mental Health Coordinator, works with psychologists, social workers, and crisis teams.
• Ellen Kerkoff: Mental Health Lead, coaches and supports school psychologists and social workers.

Special Highlights:

• Douglas County’s mental health internship programs and recent APA accreditation.
• The district’s commitment to high-quality training for school psychologists and social workers.
• Emphasis on all students being general education students first, with support tailored to individual needs.

Resources & Contact:

• Learn more about DCSEAC: DCSEAC.org
• Email: [email protected]
• Follow DCSEAC on social media for updates and upcoming conversations.

Call to Action: If you found this episode helpful, please like, share, and follow the podcast. Reach out with suggestions or questions via social media or email.

Missed previous episodes? Check out the first two parts on IEP referral, evaluation, and meetings for a complete understanding of the process.

Show Notes: "Oh My! The IEP Meeting and Advice for Parents" – Part 2

Hosts & Guests:

• Meredith (Host)
• Tashia White (Co-host/Parent)
• Dr. Stephanie Crawford (Director of Mental Health)
• Dr. Bernadette Pigeon (Mental Health Coordinator)
• Ellen Kerkoff (Mental Health Lead)

Topics Covered:

• What to expect at an IEP meeting: structure, annual reviews, and the three-year reevaluation process.
• Navigating school transitions (elementary to middle, middle to high school) and how to support your child.
• The importance of collaboration and communication between current and future IEP teams.
• Translating clinical terms into parent-friendly, educational language.
• How IEP goals are set, measured, and scaffolded for student growth.
• The role of parents and students in goal-setting and advocacy.
• Addressing concerns about grade-level expectations, graduation, and individualized student outcomes.
• Advice for parents: preparing questions, advocating for your child, and building collaborative relationships with the IEP team.
• Strategies for handling challenging meetings, seeking support, and giving yourself grace as a parent.
• Reducing stigma around special education and celebrating neurodiversity and student strengths.

Practical Tips for Parents:

• Be proactive: attend parent-teacher conferences, communicate openly, and empower your child to self-advocate.
• Prepare questions and observations ahead of the IEP meeting.
• Don’t hesitate to ask for clarification or request a pause if the meeting becomes overwhelming.
• Build at least one strong relationship with a team member for support.
• Remember, you are the expert on your child and a key member of the IEP team.
• Bring any support person you wish to the meeting.

Resources Mentioned:

• DCSEAC website: DCSEAC.org
• Contact: [email protected]
• Social media links for DCSEAC (see website for details)
• Additional resources referenced in the episode will be listed in the show notes.
• DCSD Mental Health Site and within that site when a person clicks on resources are the following:
• Colorado Resources
• Douglas County Youth and Family Resource Guide
• Douglas County Youth & Family Resource Guide for Multilingual Resources
• Metro Mental Health Community Resources Guide
• Colorado Resources below:
• Parents Encouraging Parents (PEP) - https://ed.cde.state.co.us/cdesped/spedparents/pep
• Peak Parent Center - https://www.peakparent.org/

Next Episode:

• Part 3: Functional behavior assessments and exciting district news.

How to Support:

• Like, share, and follow the podcast.
• Send suggestions or questions via social media or email.

Show Notes: "Oh My! The IEP Evaluation" – Part 1

Hosts & Guests:

• Meredith (Host)
• Tashia White (Co-host/Parent)
• Dr. Stephanie Crawford (Director of Mental Health)
• Dr. Bernadette Pigeon (Mental Health Coordinator)
• Ellen Kerkoff (Mental Health Lead)

Topics Covered:

• Understanding the IEP evaluation process: what it is, how it starts, and who is involved.
• Signs a student may need an evaluation (academic, behavioral, internalizing/externalizing behaviors).
• The role of parents, teachers, and multidisciplinary teams in referrals and evaluations.
• The difference between psychoeducational evaluations and other assessments (speech, OT, etc.).
• The importance of referral questions and individualized evaluation plans.
• Medical vs. educational diagnoses: what schools can and cannot do.
• The RTI (Response to Intervention) and MTSS (Multi-Tiered System of Supports) frameworks.
• How outside reports and multiple perspectives are used in evaluations.
• The three-year reevaluation process and what changes over time.
• Addressing stigma around special education and supporting neurodiverse students.
• Advice for parents navigating the process and collaborating with schools.

Resources Mentioned:

• DCSEAC website: DCSEAC.org
• Contact: [email protected]
• Social media links for DCSEAC (see website for details)
• Additional resources: https://www.dcsdk12.org/about/departments/special-education

Next Episodes:

• Part 2: The three-year evaluation process, IEP meetings, and parent advice.
• Part 3: Functional behavior assessments and district updates.

How to Support:

• Like, share, and follow the podcast.
• Send suggestions or questions via social media or email.

Navigating Threat Assessments in Special Education

Aleia Mastroianni and board members Kelly Mayr, Courtney Nangle, Meredith Daley, and Tashia White discuss the unique challenges that threat assessments pose within the special needs community. They cover how atypical behaviors associated with disabilities can be misinterpreted as threats, the lack of parental notification during assessments, and the potential negative consequences for neurodiverse students. The conversation touches on the need for clear communication with schools, proactive planning through IEPs and BIPs, and educating children about self-advocacy and understanding their own behaviors. The episode aims to provide insights and actionable steps for parents dealing with these complex issues.

00:00 Introduction and Guest Introductions

00:24 Understanding Threat Assessments in Special Education

01:45 Personal Experiences with Threat Assessments

03:13 Challenges and Vulnerabilities in the Process

06:17 Parental Concerns and Recommendations

15:47 Alternative Approaches to Discipline

19:41 Final Thoughts and Resources

DCSD Safety and Security Forum

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LK4engtBFoI

ABC Behavior Tracking

https://www.educationandbehavior.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/ABC-Chart.pdf

Show Notes: Special Ed IEPs, 504s. Oh My – Animal Assisted Interventions in Schoolsconceptions about therapy animals in schoolsThe training, certification, and well-being of therapy dogsThe difference between therapy animals and service animalsHeartwarming stories of therapy dogs making a difference for students, staff, and parentsThe importance of temperament and mutual benefit for both the animal and the school communityHow to connect with therapy dog teams aEpisode Overview:In this heartfelt episode, host Meredith is joined by Courtney and Aleia to explore the impact of animal assisted interventions in schools. Special guests Laura Wilson (Behavior Specialist, Douglas County School District), Lisa German (School Social Worker, Legend High School), and therapy dog Daphne share their experiences and insights on how therapy animals support both students and staff.Key Topics Discussed:What is animal assisted intervention and how does it work in schools?The roles of therapy dogs and their handlers in supporting students and staffHow animal interventions can be used as tools within IEPs and 504 plansThe process for parents to get their child involved in therapy animal programsAddressing allergies, fears, and miscond support the programSpecial Dedication:This episode is dedicated to Vader, a beloved therapy dog who brought comfort and joy to many. Our thoughts are with Lisa, her family, the students at Legend High School, and everyone who loved Vader.

Resources:

- DCSD Animal Assisted Interventions Site

- DCSD ADA Site - Service Dog Policy/Requests

- Canine Companions for Independence & Freedom Service Dogs - Two of many organizations that train/place service and therapy dogs.

- Instagrams - Daphne=@therapydog.daphne and Vader & Harry=@legendarytherapydog

Connect with Us:

• Follow DCSEAC on social media for updates and more [email protected]
• Socials:Instagram: @DCSEAC_COFacebook: DCSEACTikTok: dcseacYoutube: @DCSEAC