California education rights attorney Jennifer Chang authored an article in the February 2026 issue of OC Lawyer Magazine that brings much-needed clarity to one of the most misunderstood concepts in special education law: the requirements of a Free and Appropriate Public Education (FAPE). Her piece speaks directly to attorneys and advocates who regularly encounter overwhelmed … Read More
For many students in California, school is not a place of learning or belonging. Instead, it can be a place of fear and seclusion. Statewide data shows that bullying and harassment remain common in California schools, with particularly serious consequences for students with disabilities. When bullying interferes with a child’s ability to learn, participate, and … Read More
When a student with an Individualized Education Program (IEP) faces sex-based harassment or discrimination at school, the issue extends beyond special education law. Title IX, a federal civil rights law, requires schools to act when sex-based misconduct disrupts a student’s access to education. For students with disabilities, these obligations often intersect with IEP rights, directly … Read More
Students with disabilities are suspended and expelled at disproportionately high rates compared to their representation in the student body. The 2021–2022 Civil Rights Data Collection (CRDC) shows that students with disabilities make up 17% of U.S. public school students but represent 27% of in-school suspensions, 29% of out-of-school suspensions, and 24% of expulsions. These disparities … Read More
An Individualized Education Program (IEP) is designed to provide a customized approach to your child’s education. But what should you do if you disagree with that plan? Whether the disagreement involves goals, services, placement, or accommodations, it is your right as a parent or guardian of a child who needs special education to advocate for … Read More
Individualized Education Plans (IEPs) are critical tools in addressing the academic needs of students with disabilities. Navigating the IEP process can often be confusing, complex, and overwhelming for families trying to ensure their child receives the support and services they are entitled to under California law. Whether you’re new to the IEP process or seeking … Read More
Once your child is determined eligible for academic services, the school will schedule a preliminary meeting to establish the specific goals, accommodations, and related services that will be part of your child’s Individualized Education Plan (IEP). Recurring and annual IEP meetings will measure student growth and update goals, accommodations, and services as needed. Attending these … Read More
Determining eligibility for special education is only the first hurdle in helping your child receive the support required to succeed in school. Once eligibility is determined, your child will require a personalized program of services, goals, and procedures to help them achieve their educational objectives—an Individualized Education Plan. As these decisions are made by school … Read More
As a parent or guardian, you have the fundamental right to ensure your child receives a comprehensive and inclusive education. The Supreme Court protects all children in their right to attend school and receive a free and appropriate public education (FAPE), including special education services. When the public education system fails to provide your child … Read More
Access to education is a fundamental right that students with disabilities and their families have to advocate for every day. When a public education program fails to provide services required under law, administrative or legal action is often necessary to ensure a student receives the services and resources they need to be successful in school. … Read More
