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
Special Education Law
Common Questions Parents Have About IEPs
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
Navigating IEP Meetings: Five Tips for Success
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
Understanding an IEP for Effective Services and Growth
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
Educational Rights for Students with Disabilities in California
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
Understanding Access to Education for Students with Disabilities
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
How School Communities Can Support Disability Awareness
Empowering students with disabilities begins with prioritizing an inclusive school environment that recognizes and appreciates others’ differences. When school culture takes a back seat to test scores, finances, and bureaucracy, all students lose opportunities for learning and growth. Jennifer Chang is an award-winning Education Rights Attorney who works with families to help protect the rights … Read More
Does My Child Qualify for a 504 Plan?
As a parent, ensuring your child has access to the best possible tools for education is essential for their success as learners. However, for students with disabilities or medical conditions, the traditional classroom settings can present significant barriers to learning, requiring assistance through accommodations provided by a 504 Plan. Schools are required to comply with … Read More
Jennifer Chang Named Orange County Women In Business Award Nominee
California education rights attorney Jennifer Chang was named by the Orange County Business Journal as a 2024 Women in Business Awards nominee. The special report, published September 30, 2024, profiles Jennifer, highlighting her exceptional career protecting the rights of children with special needs in the California public school system and her contributions to the Korean … Read More
A Guide to Common Special Education Acronyms and Terms
Navigating special education law as a parent advocating for your child with special needs can be a daunting task, full of acronyms and terms that are frequently used and hold great importance. Because school district documentation can be complex and confusing it is necessary to understand what the acronyms stand for and what the terms … Read More