David welcomes special education advocate Karen Mayer Cunningham, known as the 'Special Education Boss.' Karen shares her journey from being a mother navigating the special education system to becoming a leading advocate for children with disabilities. Together, they tackle practical strategies for parents and educators to navigate IEP meetings, advocate effectively, and ensure meaningful progress for students. Filled with expert insights, tips, and personal stories, this episode is a must-listen for anyone involved in special education.
Visit https://specialeducationacademy.com/
Email David Kaufer at david.kaufer@hey.com
And visit https://davidkaufer.com/
Topics
00:37 Meet the Special Education Boss: Karen Mayer Cunningham
01:51 Karen's Personal Journey and Advocacy
04:35 Challenges in Special Education
07:54 The Importance of Proper Training and Resources
13:59 Navigating the IEP Process
18:16 Advocating for Your Child's Rights
19:21 The Role of Schools and Teachers
20:32 Legal and Systemic Issues in Special Education
21:38 Karen's Mission and Vision for the Future
23:54 Legal Requirements for Special Education
24:17 The 504 Plan Controversy
25:12 Challenges in Special Education
26:40 The Role of Parents in IEP Meetings
29:00 Communication and Assistive Technology
33:54 Preparing for IEP Meetings
40:43 Tips for Parents and Educators