Today, I emphasize the importance of acknowledging our 'perfectly imperfect' lives, especially during the busy IEP season. I share exciting news about my summer consulting offerings at a discount, explaining how this helps me manage the seasonal nature of my work and prepare for the fall intake. If you need help making strong cases for inclusive services or specific curricula, I'm here to assist starting this summer. Let's tackle our to-dos together and hit the ground running before the new school year begins.  Then, I’ll dive into the end of Section 1415, finishing up procedural safeguards.   These provisions have a lot of critically important help for parents and are something you won’t want to miss.  As always, I try to add my insights and experiences to help make it all make sense!

In this episode, I sit down with Dr. Joy, a board-certified pediatrician specializing in integrative care for neurodiverse children. We delve into the topic of mast cell activation syndrome (MCAS) and histamine intolerance, exploring how an awareness of these conditions can profoundly impact lives. Dr. Joy shares her unique perspective on integrative medicine from both personal and professional experiences, emphasizing the importance of looking at the whole child. We also discuss practical steps for implementing lifestyle changes to manage symptoms, from diet adjustments to environmental modifications. Join us as we uncover simple yet life-changing strategies for better health.

Dr. Joy Eberhardt De Master

Dr. Joy is a board-certified pediatrician (FAAP) who has been dedicated to supporting children and families since 2009. After several years in primary care, she found her calling in integrative pediatrics, with a special focus on children with developmental and behavioral needs. Her approach is rooted in the whole child and led by the parent, always prioritizing collaboration and inclusivity.

As both a neurodiverse individual and a parent of neurodiverse children, Dr. Joy brings a unique perspective and deep empathy to her work. She values innovative, inclusive practices that honor each family's journey.

Fluent in Spanish and proudly bicultural, Dr. Joy was raised between the U.S. and Mexico. In 2021, she opened Orchid Pediatrics—a welcoming, inclusive practice built on the belief that healthcare should be accessible, empowering, and centered on true partnership with families.

One of the quotes that guides her approach comes from Albert Camus: “Don’t walk in front of me; I may not follow. Don’t walk behind me; I may not lead. Just walk beside me.” This philosophy reflects her commitment to walking alongside each family with compassion and respect.

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• 01:10 Dr. Joy's Background and Integrative Pediatric Care
• 02:07 Ashley's Personal Journey with Integrative Medicine
• 07:12 Understanding PDA and Its Impact
• 13:34 Parenting Strategies for PDA and Safety Concerns
• 21:55 Navigating Independence and Communication
• 22:17 Understanding Mast Cell Activation Syndrome
• 23:15 Symptoms and Triggers of Mast Cell Activation
• 23:51 Addressing Misbehavior and Root Causes
• 25:48 Personal Stories and Experiences
• 31:54 Treatment Approaches and Dietary Changes
• 35:47 Practical Advice for Parents
• 41:34 Final Thoughts and Resources

On this episode of the Collaborative IEP podcast,  we continue on our deep dive into the intricacies of IDEA Section 1415, focusing on procedural safeguards. We'll explore essential details on notification requirements, prior written notices, due process complaints, mediation processes, and impartial due process hearings. Discover how to effectively handle these procedural safeguards to ensure you are well-prepared for your next IEP meeting. Plus, I'll share some personal updates from my recent advocacy work on Capitol Hill and update from “IEP Season.”. Let's make your IEP meetings more efficient and less stressful!

00:00 Introduction and Host's Personal Anecdote

01:28 Overview of Procedural Safeguards

03:54 Notification Requirements

06:22 Due Process Complaints

10:44 Notice of Procedural Safeguards

14:49 Mediation Rights and Procedures

21:56 Conclusion and Membership Promotion

23:27 Impartial Due Process Hearings

In this episode of the Collaborative IEP Podcast, I’m diving into Section 1415 of the IDEA—the part of the law that lays out procedural safeguards. These protections are game-changers for families, offering critical rights that help level the playing field in special education. I’m sharing why I care so deeply about these safeguards, breaking down what they mean, how they work, and why they matter.

We’ll talk about things like your right to prior written notice, your role in meetings about your child, and how you can request an independent educational evaluation. I’m also excited to introduce something new—a retainer fee agreement created to offer consistent support to parents all school year long.

Join me as we unpack these powerful tools that are here to protect and empower you and your child every step of the way.

00:00 Introduction and Recap

00:22 Diving into Section 1415: Procedural Safeguards

01:00 Personal Journey into Special Education Law

04:59 Exciting New Project Announcement

10:01 Overview of Section 1415

15:13 Detailed Breakdown of Procedural Safeguards

27:39 Conclusion and Next Steps

In this episode of the Collaborative IEP podcast, we finally finish Section 1414, specifically focusing on subsection D, which covers the development of the IEP. We’ll  discuss the four essential considerations for the IEP team, including the strengths of the child, parental concerns, evaluation results, and the child's academic, developmental, and functional needs. The episode also explores special factors that must be considered, such as behavior, limited English proficiency, and assistive technology needs. Additionally, I provide insights on the role of the general education teacher, ways to amend the IEP, and the importance of parental participation in placement decisions. The episode concludes with discussions on transition objectives and the involvement of other agencies, as well as provisions for electronic meeting participation.  We put in a lot of work in Section 1414!  Excited to keep plugging away next week! 

00:00 Introduction and Overview

00:42 Key Considerations for Developing an IEP

03:15 Special Factors in IEP Development

04:30 Behavioral Considerations in IEPs

08:33 Communication and Assistive Technology Needs

11:15 Role of General Education Teachers in IEPs

13:59 Amending and Reviewing IEPs

29:23 Transition Objectives and Responsibilities

32:55 Final Provisions and Conclusion

Welcome back to the Collaborative IEP podcast!  I'm thrilled to be back after my spring break. In this episode, we continue our exploration of Section 1414 of IDEA, focusing on evaluations, eligibility determinations, individualized education programs, and educational placements. We delve into the specifics of the IEP team, its necessary members, and the complex scenarios when attendance isn't necessary or members can be excused. I also share why parents and certain specialists are critical to the process. Transitioning districts and the procedures involved, especially for military families and children aged three to five, are thoroughly discussed. Join me as I navigate through this essential section of IDEA and get ready for our next episode where we will dive into the development of the IEP. Don't forget to check out our courses and membership resources to enhance your advocacy skills!

00:00 Introduction and Catching Up

01:00 Revisiting Section 1414 of IDEA

03:10 Understanding the IEP Team

17:14 IEP Team Attendance Rules

25:50 Transferring IEPs Between Districts

32:15 Conclusion and Next Steps

In this episode of the Collaborative IEP Podcast, I'm Ashley Barlow, your host. We continue our exploration of the IDEA, specifically focusing on Individualized Education Programs (IEPs). Starting with IDEA Part B, Section 1414, we dive into the essential components of IEPs, including present levels of academic and functional performance, writing measurable annual goals, and outlining special education and related services. We discuss the importance of goals being specific, measurable, and tailored to the child's unique needs. I also share personal anecdotes and insights on making IEPs both strength-based and goal-oriented. Join me as we break down these complex but crucial aspects of special education. See you next week for part two!

00:00 Introduction and Podcast Rebranding

00:24 Starting the IEP Discussion

01:03 Personal Anecdotes and Updates

04:12 IEP Definitions and Components

07:29 Present Levels of Performance

14:06 Measurable Annual Goals

27:02 Progress Measurement and Reporting

32:31 Special Education and Related Services

36:25 Conclusion and Next Episode Teaser

In this episode I’ll continue to break down Section 1414, Part B of the IDEA, focusing on the determination of eligibility.  The discussion will emphasize the meaningful participation of parents in the eligibility process and the importance of obtaining and reviewing all necessary documentation. In this portion of SEction 1414, we’ll also learn about the severe discrepancy model for eligibility for a  specific learning disability (SLD) and the use of other diagnostic criteria like Response to Intervention (RTI)/Multi-Tiered Systems of Support (MTSS). Finally, we’ll wrap up for some additional sections on  evaluations and reevaluations, highlighting the necessity of ongoing assessments and the importance of parent consent.

• 00:00 Introduction and Overview
• 01:27 Eligibility Determination Process
• 02:28 Practical Tips for Eligibility Meetings
• 03:35 Understanding Specific Learning Disabilities (SLDs)
• 06:22 Additional Requirements for Evaluations and Reevaluations
• 07:10 Review of Existing Evaluation Data
• 09:25 Present Levels of Academic Achievement
• 11:06 Final Notes on Evaluation and Reevaluation

In this special episode of The Collaborative IEP Podcast, I’m diving into a big case you might’ve heard about—Texas vs. Becerra (now Kennedy)—and what it could mean for Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act. Section 504, which has been around since 1973, is a law that protects people with disabilities from discrimination from organizations and businesses that receive federal funding.  I have read the entire case, as well as all of the filings to date, and I’ll break it all down for you – the good, the bad, and the ugly! 

We’ll unpack the background of the case, which involves 17 states challenging a new addition to the definition of disability—specifically, the Biden administration’s move to include gender dysphoria under that umbrella. We’ll talk about the real threat- these states’ request to find Section 504 Unconstitutional.  I’ll break down what the states are arguing specifically, what’s happening with the case now, and why all of this matters—especially for our schools and the disability community.

I’ll also talk about the federal vs. state power struggle at the heart of the issue and the success of the grassroots advocacy that’s come out of it (we made them backtrack significantly!). Join me for a thoughtful conversation about how this case highlights the complicated intersections between disability rights, government regulations, and the policies that affect our everyday lives.

Timestamps

• 00:00 Introduction and Overview
• 00:33 Background on Section 504 and Texas vs. Becerra
• 02:43 Understanding Section 504 and Its Implications
• 04:52 Details of the Texas vs. Becerra Case
• 14:08 Arguments Against the New Rule
• 24:13 Medicaid and Community-Based Services
• 26:47 State-Specific Concerns and Broader Implications
• 38:26 Updates and Current Status
• 44:56 Conclusion and Next Steps

In this episode of the Collaborative IEP Podcast, I dive deep into the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), focusing specifically on evaluations and the IEP document itself. I'm walking you through sections 1414 A, B, and C—breaking down the purpose of different assessment tools, the requirement for parental consent, and the step-by-step procedures for evaluations and reevaluations.

• 00:00 Introduction and Podcast Overview
• 01:33 Exciting New Course Announcement
• 03:36 Recording from a New Location
• 06:11 Diving into Section 1414: Evaluations and Eligibility
• 21:48 Evaluation Procedures and Requirements
• 41:20 Conclusion and Upcoming Topics