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Dana Jonson

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Special Ed on Special EdSpecial Ed on Special EdUnderstanding Pathological Demand Avoidance (PDA) with Diane GouldStay tuned for the transcript, which will be available shortly after publication on SpecialEd.fm. Host: Dana Jonson Guest: Diane Gould Guest Title and Bio: Diane Gould is a licensed clinical social worker with over 40 years of experience working with neurodivergent children, adults, and their families. She founded PDA North America, an organization dedicated to supporting families and professionals navigating this unique autism profile. Diane is also the co-author of the groundbreaking book, Navigating PDA in America, which adapts international knowledge of PDA to the unique challenges faced by families in the United States. Her work focuses on cr...2025-02-0342 minSpecial Ed on Special EdSpecial Ed on Special EdNavigating the Emotional Terrain: Counseling and Behavioral Strategies in Special Education with Dr. Gwen MartinShortly after publication, a transcript of this episode will be published on SpecialEd.fm. Host: Dana Jonson Guest: Dr. Gwendolyn Martin Title/Organization: Licensed Professional Counselor, Founder of Dr. Gwen’s Counselor Café, LLC, and Coastal Crossroads Counseling Solutions, LLC Guest Bio: Dr. Gwendolyn Martin, also known as Dr. Gwen, is a licensed professional counselor, former special education teacher, school counselor, and college professor. She has dedicated her career to supporting children and families with high emotional and behavioral needs. Through her ventures, Dr. Gwen’s Counselor Café, LLC, and Coastal Crossroads Counseling Solutions, LLC, she provi...2024-12-3053 minSpecial Ed on Special EdSpecial Ed on Special EdEmpowering Through Accessibility: Insights from The Blind Blogger, Maxwell Ivey Stay tuned for the transcript, which will be available shortly after publication on SpecialEd.fm. Host: Dana Jonson
 Guest: Maxwell Ivey
 Guest Title and Bio:
Maxwell Ivey, also known as The Blind Blogger, is a blind entrepreneur, author, speaker, and accessibility advocate. Maxwell has built a successful career helping businesses, nonprofits, and organizations embrace accessibility—not just as a legal requirement, but as an opportunity to create a better experience for everyone. With an inspiring journey that began in a family of carnival owners, Maxwell has emerged as a respected voice on inclusivity in the bus...2024-12-2345 minSpecial Ed on Special EdSpecial Ed on Special EdReaching New Heights: The Power of Parent Advocacy in Special Education with April RehrigHost: Dana Jonson Guest: April Rehrig Title: Founder, Rise Educational Advocacy and Consulting Bio: April Rehrig is a distinguished advocate in special education with over two decades of experience as a school psychologist, teacher, and parent within the public school setting. As the founder of Rise Educational Advocacy and Consulting, April focuses on training parents to be effective advocates for their children. Her strength-based approach emphasizes collaboration, communication, and empowering families to navigate the IEP process successfully.   Episode Summary In this episode, Dana Jonson is joined by April Rehrig to discuss the power o...2024-12-1743 minSpecial Ed on Special EdSpecial Ed on Special EdEmpowering Autism Parenting: Transforming Challenges into Triumphs with Andrea PollackStay tuned for the transcript, which will be available shortly after publication on SpecialEd.fm. Host: Dana Jonson Guest: Andrea Pollack Founder, Autism Parent Solutions Andrea Pollack is a former litigator turned educator and parenting coach. After homeschooling her autistic son for eight years due to a lack of suitable educational settings, Andrea earned a master’s degree in education and founded Autism Parent Solutions. Her mission is to empower parents of autistic children with the tools and strategies needed to foster success at home, in school, and beyond. She is also the chairman of the board of The...2024-12-0953 minSpecial Ed on Special EdSpecial Ed on Special EdAcademic Pressures, Eating Disorders, and Mental Wellness: A Comprehensive Approach with Ilona PhillipsShortly after publication, a transcript of this episode will be published on SpecialEd.fm. Host: Dana Jonson Guest: Ilona Phillips Founder of Lotus Consulting, Psychotherapist specializing in eating disorders Guest Bio: Ilona Phillips is the founder of a psychotherapy group practice specializing in treating eating disorders. With over two decades of experience, she evolved from working solo to leading a team of 30 clinicians. Her work emphasizes helping individuals navigate recovery from eating and anxiety disorders while equipping parents and guardians with the tools and resources necessary to support loved ones. Ilona passionately advocates for mental hea...2024-12-0255 minSpecial Ed on Special EdSpecial Ed on Special EdSuicidal Behaviors in Adolescents with Disabilities and Therapeutic Support with Melody MurrayShortly after publication, a transcript of this episode will be available on SpecialEd.fm. Host: Dana Jonson Guest: Melody Murray Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, Child Mental Health Specialist, Author Melody has a unique background that spans roles as a hospital ER mental health evaluator, reality TV producer, and therapist. With experience in childhood trauma, suicidal ideation, and family dynamics, Melody is dedicated to making mental health accessible through public forums and online courses. She’s known for her holistic approach, combining professional insight with personal experience to support families and individuals in transformative ways. 2024-11-251h 05Special Ed on Special EdSpecial Ed on Special EdEmpowering Through Exercise: Fitness and Autism with Jimmy ClareShortly after publication, a transcript of this episode will be published on SpecialEd.fm. Host: Dana Jonson Guest: Jimmy Clare Guest Title: Founder of Crazy Fitness Guy, Motivational Speaker, Autism Advocate, Author Introduction: In this episode, Dana Jonson sits down with Jimmy Clare, the resilient and inspiring founder of Crazy Fitness Guy. Jimmy, a motivational speaker, autism advocate, and host of the Crazy Fitness Guy Healthy Living Podcast, shares his journey of overcoming adversity, including bullying, multiple surgeries, and living with spinal stenosis. Dana and Jimmy explore how he turned his experiences into strength and...2024-11-1839 minSpecial Ed on Special EdSpecial Ed on Special EdDysgraphia Insights and Inclusive Strategies with Cheri DottererShortly after publication, a transcript of this episode will be published on SpecialEd.fm. Host: Dana Jonson Guest: Cheri Dotterer Guest's Bio: Cheri Dotterer is a handwriting specialist and dysgraphia consultant with an occupational therapy background. Her work focuses on providing innovative strategies and interventions for individuals with dysgraphia, combining educational neuroscience with hands-on support. Episode Summary: In this episode, Dana Jonson and Cheri Dotterer explore the complexities of dysgraphia, covering its emotional, cognitive, and physical impact on students with learning disabilities. Cheri introduces her six-part “IMPACT” framework, addressing the sensory and...2024-11-1149 minSpecial Ed on Special EdSpecial Ed on Special EdUnlocking Potential Enhancing Brain Health and Development with Dr. Rebecca JacksonShortly after publication, a transcript of this episode will be published on SpecialEd.fm. Host: Dana Jonson Guest: Dr. Rebecca Jackson Chief Programs Officer, Brain Balance, Board-Certified Cognitive Specialist, and Doctor of Chiropractic. Guest Bio: Dr. Rebecca Jackson is a brain health expert and the Chief Programs Officer at Brain Balance. She is also a Board-Certified Cognitive Specialist and a Doctor of Chiropractic with over 15 years of dedicated research and hands-on application in cognitive development. She has passionately worked to improve the well-being of children and adults, authoring the book Back on Track to offer prac...2024-11-0446 minSpecial Ed on Special EdSpecial Ed on Special EdGenetics and Disability: Tailoring Child Development and Wellness with Dr. J DunnShortly after publication, a transcript of this episode will be available on SpecialEd.fm. Host: Dana Jonson Guest: Dr. J Dunn, Chiropractor, Functional Medicine Expert, Founder of My Happy Genes Brief Bio: Dr. J Dunn is a holistic kinesiology and methylation expert with 30+ years of experience, pioneering My Happy Genes, a personalized genetic testing system to optimize health and mental wellness. Introduction: Dana Jonson welcomes Dr. J Dunn to explore genetics' role in mental and physical health. Dr. Dunn shares her journey overcoming depression and fatigue by understanding her genetic makeup...2024-10-2850 minThe Curious Incident PodcastThe Curious Incident PodcastEp. 29 - Trends and Developments in Special Education Law In this episode, Adam Dayan, NYC Special Education Attorney, engages in a discussion with Dana Jonson, a Civil Rights and Special Education Attorney, examining the profound impacts of COVID-19 on special education. They explore the evolving meaning of Free Appropriate Public Education (FAPE) in the post-pandemic era, highlighting challenges and legal implications for students with disabilities. Together they draw on Dana's personal journey with Dyslexia and ADHD to contrast past experiences with contemporary approaches in special education underscoring the ongoing need for inclusive education reforms and advocacy to ensure equitable access and support for all students. 2024-07-0851 minSpecial Ed on Special EdSpecial Ed on Special EdRevolutionizing Cognitive Skills with Video Games: An Interview with Dr. Steve GullansShortly after publication, a transcript of this episode will be published on SpecialEd.fm Gaming and Cognitive Enhancement with Dr. Steve Gullans Summary In this episode, Dana Jonson interviews Dr. Steve Gullans, a trailblazer in biotechnology and cognitive enhancement. Dr. Gullans discusses his journey from academia to pioneering brainwave technology and video game-based cognitive training. He elaborates on Think Better's innovative approaches, exemplified by the EEG headset and the video game "Skylar's Run," designed to improve mental focus and cognitive skills in both children and adults. This episode is particularly insightful for parents and educators in the special education c...2024-06-0352 minSpecial Ed on Special EdSpecial Ed on Special EdDesigning Spaces of Hope with Mark OstromShortly after publication, a transcript of this episode will be published on SpecialEd.fm Host: Dana Jonson Guest: Mark Ostrom, Founder of Joy Collaborative Introduction: In this episode of "Special Ed on Special Ed," host Dana Jonson welcomes Mark Ostrom, the founder of Joy Collaborative, to discuss how his organization uses compassionate design to create life-changing spaces for youth with life-limiting conditions. Discover the power of design in transforming the daily experiences of these young individuals and their families. Memorable Quotes: "You showed us how to live in our space." - Feedback from a fam...2024-05-2046 minSpecial Ed on Special EdSpecial Ed on Special EdHarnessing Creativity and Adaptation in Education with Michaell MagrutscheShortly after publication, a transcript of this episode will be published on SpecialEd.fm Host: Dana Jonson Guest: Michaell Magrutsche Introduction: A fascinating exploration of creativity and systemic thinking in education, featuring insights from Michaell Magrutsche, an advocate for integrating human-centric approaches within educational systems. Discussion Highlights: The importance of recognizing and nurturing individual uniqueness within educational and systemic frameworks was emphasized, with Michaell sharing insights from his personal experiences as a neurodiverse individual. Michaell advocated for a human-centric approach to education, critiquing traditional systems that prioritize ro...2024-04-0158 minSpecial Ed on Special EdSpecial Ed on Special EdExploring Photobiomodulation for Children with Autism and other Disabilities with Dr. Kyle DaigleSoon after publication a transcript will be posted on SpecialEd.fm Host: Dana Jonson Guest: Dr. Kyle Daigle Introduction: This episode of "Special Ed on Special Ed" features Dr. Kyle Daigle, an expert in neurological rehabilitation and child development. Dr. Daigle discusses the fascinating world of photobiomodulation, its impact on neurological disorders, and its application in treating children with disabilities such as ADHD and autism. Memorable Quotes: "Photo bio modulation means changing life with light." ~ Dr. Kyle Daigle, explaining the essence of photobiomodulation during the podcast. 2024-03-1856 minSpecial Ed on Special EdSpecial Ed on Special EdParent Advocacy Insights from School Psychologist and Special Education Director Diana Fannon Shortly after publication, a transcript for this episode will be posted on SpecialEd.fm Advocacy Insights with Diana Fannon Host: Dana Jonson Guest: Diana Fannon, Special Educaiton Director and School Psychologist Introduction: Dana Jonson introduces Diana Fannon, a Director of Special Education and a former school psychologist. Diana shares her personal journey with epilepsy and how it has influenced her approach to advocacy and education. Resources Mentioned: Disability Ed Pros Website: www.disabilityedpros.com Free Webinar on Demystifying the Path to Eligibility: www.d...2024-03-0446 minSpecial Ed on Special EdSpecial Ed on Special EdNeurodiversity Unveiled: Beyond the Should Storm of Parenting with Dr. Alison EscalanteShortly after publication, a transcript of this episode will be added to the show notes on the podcast website https://SpecialEd.fm. Host: Dana Jonson Guest: Dr. Alison Escalante INTRODUCTION: In this enlightening episode, Dana Jonson is joined by Dr. Alison Escalante, a board-certified pediatrician renowned for her innovative approach to parenting and child development. With over two decades of experience, Dr. Escalante shares invaluable insights on overcoming the challenges of parenting, particularly within the neurodiverse community. The conversation delves into the intricacies of ADHD, sensory sensitivity, and the societal pressures that...2024-02-1951 minSpecial Ed on Special EdSpecial Ed on Special EdTransforming Parenting Attachment, Neurobiology, and Thriving Children with Dr. Tamara SolesShortly after publication, a TRANSCRIPT of this episode will be added to the show notes on the podcast website https://SpecialEd.fm. Join host Dana Jonson and Dr. Tamara Soles, a renowned child psychologist and parent coach, for an insightful conversation on "Transforming Parenting - Attachment, Neurobiology, and Thriving Children." Dive into the world of parenting neurodivergent children, the importance of attachment in parenting, and the role of parental self-reflection. Dr. Soles shares her wealth of experience in early childhood mental health, highlighting the impact of attachment and neurobiology on child development. Key quotes from Dr. Soles emphasize understanding n...2024-02-051h 00Special Ed on Special EdSpecial Ed on Special EdGiftedness and Beyond: Navigating Neurodivergence with Dr. Matt ZakreskiShortly after publication, a TRANSCRIPT of this episode will be added to the show notes on the podcast website, https://SpecialEd.fm. Episode Title: Giftedness and Beyond: Navigating Neurodivergence with Dr. Matt Zakreski Guest:  Dr. Matt Zakreski Host: Dana Jonson This episode offers a deep dive into understanding and supporting neurodivergent children. Dr. Matt's expertise and empathetic approach make this a must-listen for parents, educators, and anyone interested in neurodiversity. Introduction: Dana Jonson introduces Dr. Matt Zakreski, a passionate advocate for the neurodivergent community. 2024-01-2252 minSpecial Ed on Special EdSpecial Ed on Special EdMastering Essential Social Skills: A Guide for Teens and Young Adults with Kirt ManeckeEpisode Show Notes Shortly after publication, a transcript of this episode will be added to the show notes on the podcast website https://SpecialEd.fm. Topic: Essential Social and Career Skills for Teens in Today's Digital Era This episode delves into crucial social and career skills that teens and young adults must navigate in our highly digitalized world. Kirt Manecke's insights offer invaluable advice on developing these vital competencies. Guest: Kirt Manecke, Award-Winning Author of "Smile & Succeed for Teens: Must-Know People Skills for Today’s Wired World" Host: Dana Jo...2024-01-2238 minSpecial Ed on Special EdSpecial Ed on Special EdMaximizing Independence for Students with Autism: A conversation with Julie Swanson, The Life Skills LadyA TRANSCRIPT of this episode will be added to the show notes on the podcast website: https://SpecialEd.fm shortly after publication.   Life skills are the biggest predictor of adult success for individuals with Autism. Yet, many parents and school teams misunderstand the full breadth of life skills, and they often take a back seat in special education planning.  We discuss the 3 domains and 10 categories of life skills and their importance to increasing quality of life, how to incorporate life skills into the IEP early, and how to navigate transition and the IDEA (Individuals with Di...2024-01-1956 minSpecial Ed on Special EdSpecial Ed on Special EdDemystifying Psychological Evaluations: Insights from Dr. Diana NaddeoShortly after publication, a TRANSCRIPT of this episode will be added to the show notes on the podcast website https://SpecialEd.fm. Introduction: Welcome to our enlightening episode, where we delve into the world of psychological evaluations with Dr. Diana Naddeo, a seasoned Licensed Clinical Psychologist. Known for her comprehensive approach to pediatric psychological assessments, Dr. Naddeo integrates emotions, personality, learning, and behavior to offer a holistic understanding of her patients. Her expertise spans psychiatric diagnosis, educational assessment, and a myriad of treatment approaches aimed at crafting effective plans for patients and their families. 2023-11-2848 minDark and Stormy Book ClubDark and Stormy Book ClubCynthia Surrisi Interview - Patron SpotlightOn this episode, we talked with our longest patron, Cynthia Surrisi. She has two books thathave just come out. She is a very successful middle school novel author.The Bones of Birka: Unraveling the Mystery of A Female Viking Warrior.(Chicago ReviewPress). When archaeologist Dr. Charlotte Hedenstierna-Jonson discovers that the bonescontained in the most significant Viking warrior grave ever opened are, in fact, female, she andher team upend centuries of historically accepted conclusions and ignite a furious debatearound the reality of female Viking warriors and the role of gender...2023-05-0237 minSpecial Ed on Special EdSpecial Ed on Special EdThe Long Term Impact of School Shootings with Deb Del Vecchio-Scully, LPC, NCC, BCN, DCMHSOn the 10th Anniversary of the Sandy Hook Shooting, I speak with Deb Del Vecchio-Scully, a trauma specialist, about the long-term impacts of school shootings.2022-12-1437 minSpecial Ed on Special EdSpecial Ed on Special EdSocial Skills Training rooted in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA): a conversation with Justyna Balzar, M.Ed. BCBA LBA (CT)When people hear ABA, they usually think of Autism. However, social skills training is a component of applied behavior analysis (ABA) therapy that can help students with social skills deficits. ABA social skills training offers a set of techniques designed to strengthen an individual’s social skills. Neurological, emotional, and developmental disabilities are often marked by a lack of social intuition. Most people learn social rules and conventions naturally, but they are foreign to individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) and other developmental disabilities. Some students find it impossible to master even seemingly simple social interactions. ...2022-11-3034 minSpecial Ed on Special EdSpecial Ed on Special EdSocial Emotional Learning (SEL) with Dr. Judy GrossmanThis is an essential episode because Social Emotional Learning is not just for students with special education needs - everyone needs social-emotional learning skills! Social-Emotional Learning, also called SEL, is an integral part of education and human development. It helps students and adults develop healthy identities, manage emotions, and feel empathy for others. SEL gives students the skills they need to build supportive relationships. Students learn the skills, attitudes, and knowledge surrounding social-emotional learning to make responsible decisions. By establishing trusting and collaborative relationships, rigorous and meaningful curriculum and instruction, and ongoing evaluation, SEL helps...2022-11-1642 minSpecial Ed on Special EdSpecial Ed on Special EdSpecial Education Due Process Hearing, and a side of IEEs[iframe style="border:none" src="//html5-player.libsyn.com/embed/episode/id/24802530/height/100/width//thumbnail/yes/render-playlist/no/theme/custom/tdest_id/2148560/custom-color/61ce70" height="100" width="100%" scrolling="no" allowfullscreen webkitallowfullscreen mozallowfullscreen oallowfullscreen msallowfullscreen] A Due Process Hearing is just one of the dispute resolution options available to parents of children with special education needs. But what is a Due Process Hearing? In special education, Due Process Hearings are not often fully adjudicated, because the issues are resolved through some form of settlement. In fact, I'm pretty sure special education is the only civil right we negotiate away...2022-10-261h 00Special Ed on Special EdSpecial Ed on Special EdBarriers to Special Education: Special Education Legal FundA key component to public education is that it should be FREE! This includes special education. But what if you can't get the special education your child is entitled to? What happens when your school says "no" to you? There are no special education police to force schools to comply or even just tell them they are wrong. Usually, the only way to enforce your rights is to hire back up - an private service provider, non-legal special education advocate, or special education attorney. Being able to hire a special education advocate or attorney, however, is as...2022-10-1440 minSpecial Ed on Special EdSpecial Ed on Special EdIEE = Independent Educational EvaluationsToday Diane Wilcutts, a special education advocate from Connecticut, joins me to talk about Independent Educational Evaluations or IEEs. Evaluations are a critical piece of the special education process, as the evaluation is where it all begins. But what if you don't agree with your school evaluation? That is where IEEs come in. You can find Diane's website here: http://www.educationadvocacyllc.com/ Diane's email address: http://www.educationadvocacyllc.com/ You can always find me here: dana@specialed.fm FLASHBACK: Did you know Diane has joined us before? Yup! To discuss...2022-09-2848 minSpecial Ed on Special EdSpecial Ed on Special EdState Complaints, and a little on IEEs tooState Complaints are just one dispute resolution options available to Parents of children with special education needs. Our favorite advocate, Stacey Tié, joins me to break down the State Complaint process, why we use them, and how they can help. A little on Stacey: What Stacey loves most about advocacy work is giving parents the opportunity to breathe. Often parents know something’s not right but don’t know how to advocate for what their child needs. She listens, helps them organize their thoughts, documents their needs, and makes a plan. Stacey ensures that parents are viewe...2022-09-1434 minSpecial Ed on Special EdSpecial Ed on Special EdWho's on your BOE?Knowing your child’s IEP team isn’t enough.  To be the best advocate for your child, you need to know who makes the decisions, how, and when.   Your local Board of Education (BOE) consists of lay representatives who live in your community and are selected by you (in some areas there are appointed school boards, which are selected by either the mayor or county freeholders, who are selected by you). Your BOE members are your neighbors, parents & grandparents of local children, local business owners, and other ordinary citizens. Your BOE members are non-partisan and receive no pay or...2021-08-1848 minSpecial Ed on Special EdSpecial Ed on Special EdWhy we need learning optionsGoing back to school in person shouldn’t be a choice between a family member and an education.  But for some families, it is just that.  For children living with immunocompromised family members, going back in person really isn’t a choice at all.  It’s not even one of the options. This episode isn’t about special ed, it’s about education and why we need learning options for children who can’t attend school in person, disability or not.   Today I talk with Dr. Marney White, both a professor at Yale School of Public Health an...2021-08-1242 minSpecial Ed on Special EdSpecial Ed on Special EdHanging Out and Going BackJustyna & Meghan from The Hangout Spot join me today to discuss how kids are adjusting to “back to normal” back to school! While I wouldn’t necessarily call it “normal” we are going back and most kids haven’t had an opportunity to flex their social muscles in a while.  They will need time and patience while they acclimate. Justyna & Meghan talk about skills students will need and what you you and your kids can starts working on now.   Justyna & Meghan were on a year ago, right after they opened The Hangout Spot to talk about how they are using...2021-08-0442 minSpecial Ed on Special EdSpecial Ed on Special EdEnd of year wrap up My office mates join me to sum up IEP season, discuss the trends we saw, and postulate on what we should expect for '21-22.  You can reach us all at SpecialEd.Law A transcript of this episode can be found here shortly after the episode is published:  https://specialed.law/end-of-year-wrap-up/2021-07-0141 minSpecial Ed on Special EdSpecial Ed on Special EdSummer isn't just a courtESYSummer's coming!  So today, special education parent and advocate, Lisa Lightner, founder of A Day in Our Shoes, joins me to discuss Extended School Year services.  What are they?  Who gets them? And do you need them?   Check out ADayInOurShoes.com A transcript of this episode can be found here shortly after the episode is published:  https://specialed.law/summer-isnt-just-a-courtesy/ TRANSCRIPT (not proofread) SUMMARY KEYWORDS parents, child, ies, extended school year, iep, school, school district, hear, social skills, students, program, summer, services, lisa, special ed, offering, camp, regression, week, disab...2021-06-2345 minSpecial Ed on Special EdSpecial Ed on Special EdWhat's the deal with mediation?What's the deal with Mediation?  Mediation is a wonderful tool for resolving disputes with your school district.  It is voluntary, free, and offered by your State, so today we are going to check it out.  We will discuss the entire process, all the players, and how you can prepare.   NEWS: I also have exciting news about the re-brand of Need to Know with Dana Jonson.  Listen to the episode to hear the details, but, in a nutshell, I will publish 3 episodes in the month of June, then I will take July off, and will return in August with a...2021-06-0337 minSpecial Ed on Special EdSpecial Ed on Special EdWe're going to SuperD!villeToday we head to SuperD!Ville where children who learn differently (and their peers) find out about how their brains work and social emotional learning.  We talk with Peggy Stern, Founder and CEO, and Diana Correa-Cintron, COO, about how SuperD!Ville came to be and how it is helping children everywhere! https://superdville.com SuperD!Ville is a forward thinking and unique multimedia resource that combines videos with real kids and lessons plans for a broad range of social and emotional issues.   Created by Academy Award winner Peggy Stern, SuperD!Ville empowers the 1 in...2021-04-2850 minSpecial Ed on Special EdSpecial Ed on Special EdA Day in Our Shoes on COVID and Comp EdHappy IEP season!  Today, special education attorney Laura Henneghan joins Lisa Lightner and A Day in Our Shoes to discuss Compensetory Education for services missed due to the global pandemic.  She covers what comp ed is, who qualifies, and how to ask for it.  You'll gain tools with which to advocate for your child in your spring IEP meetings. Check out ADayInOurShoes.com You can reach Laura at Laura@SpecialEd.Law A transcript of this episode can be found here shortly after the episode is published: https://specialed.law/A-Day-in-Our-Shoes-on-COVID-and-Comp-Ed/2021-04-171h 12MixesMixesDJ Tchort - Temporary Glitch01. Audiofly - Fela (Tiefschwarz Remix) 02. Andre Galuzzi, Dana Ruh - Thelema 03. Paul Woolford - Pursuit (Extrawelt's Skew-Angle Version) 04. Aphex Twin - Polynomial-C (Muzarco Cover) 05. Tiefschwarz - Lionel 06. Paul Brcic - Beijing Rock 07. Minilogue - Let Life Dance Thru You 08. Gregor Tresher - The Life Wire (Petar Dundov Variation) 09. Kenny Larkin - Glob (Ben Klock Remix 1) 10. Recondite - DRGN 11. Extrawelt - Herz Aus Blech (Wechsel Version) 12. Damian Lazarus - Different Now (Art Department Remix) 13. Mathew Jonson - Panna Cotta 14. Fuzzion - Frog On The Run 15. Oliver Huntemann - Tasmanian Tiger 16. Recondite - Wist 365 17. Trentemoller - Silver Surfer, Ghost Rider Go!!! (Andrew...2021-03-291h 42dj tchortdj tchortDJ Tchort - Temporary Glitch01. Audiofly - Fela (Tiefschwarz Remix) 02. Andre Galuzzi, Dana Ruh - Thelema 03. Paul Woolford - Pursuit (Extrawelt's Skew-Angle Version) 04. Aphex Twin - Polynomial-C (Muzarco Cover) 05. Tiefschwarz - Lionel 06. Paul Brcic - Beijing Rock 07. Minilogue - Let Life Dance Thru You 08. Gregor Tresher - The Life Wire (Petar Dundov Variation) 09. Kenny Larkin - Glob (Ben Klock Remix 1) 10. Recondite - DRGN 11. Extrawelt - Herz Aus Blech (Wechsel Version) 12. Damian Lazarus - Different Now (Art Department Remix) 13. Mathew Jonson - Panna Cotta 14. Fuzzion - Frog On The Run 15. Oliver Huntemann - Tasmanian Tiger 16. Recondite - Wist 365 17. Trentemoller - Silver Surfer, Ghost Rider Go!!! (Andrew...2021-03-291h 42Special Ed on Special EdSpecial Ed on Special EdWe're college bound!Is your child with special education needs college bound?  What do they need to get there? And where is there?   Today, Special Education Attorney Laura Heneghan shares her journey helping her children navigate transition skills for college and what questions to ask.     You can find both Laura and me at   https://SpecialEd.Law   and you can reach Laura directly at Laura @SpecialEd.Law   The TRANSCRIPT for this episode can be found in the show notes at https://Special...2021-03-2451 minSpecial Ed on Special EdSpecial Ed on Special EdHow SMART are your goals?With IEP season comes IEPs and with IEPs comes Goals and Objectives, the heart and soul of your child's IEP. So it is critical that your child's goals and objectives are Smart, Measurable, Attainable, Relevant, and Time-bound. Today, Special Education Advocate Stacey Tié and I talk about what you need to know to make sure your child has SMART goals and objectives! We discuss what SMART means, pull apart examples from actual IEPs, and offer questions for parents to ask in their IEP meetings to help drive those SMART Goals and Objectives. Join us! You can find b...2021-03-1746 minSpecial Ed on Special EdSpecial Ed on Special EdBeware the Ides...With March comes IEP season and it's time to prep! Around the middle of March, schools start holding IEP meetings to plan for the following school year. School districts are slammed trying to schedule all the meetings, students are at the beginning of the end of their school year, and parents need to prepare to advocate on behalf of their child. So how can you be best prepared? Today I speak with special education Attorney Laura Heneghan and non-lawyer special education Advocate Stacey Tié about what parents can do to put themselves in the best position possible to be a...2021-03-101h 01Special Ed on Special EdSpecial Ed on Special EdNow You're the AdvocateToday I'm speaking with John Flanders, a special education attorney and former Executive Director of Connecticut Parent Advocacy Center (CPAC), about why learning how to properly advocate for your child is so important. We talk about the importance of understanding not just your child's disability but the special education process and law! John tells us where parents often get confused, take missteps, &/or go down the wrong path when advocating for their child. We also talk about how parents can educate themselves, get the best results, and know when to reach out for help. Join us! How...2021-03-0339 minSpecial Ed on Special EdSpecial Ed on Special EdCna yuo read tihs too?Today I'm speaking with Kate Pearce, of Kate Pearce Educational Services, about reading deficits, assessments, and the importance of proper reading instruction. Kate is a reading specialist, educator, advocate, mom, and, yes... proud dyslexic! She provides reading assessments, instruction, and consultative services to parents and schools. Join us while we discuss what you need to know about reading issues! You can find Kate here: https://www.empoweredreader.com/ And you can find me here: https://www.facebook.com/NTKWDJ TRANSCRIPT (not proofread) SUMMARY KEYWORDS reading...2021-02-2456 minSpecial Ed on Special EdSpecial Ed on Special EdWhere I Lay My HeadToday I speak with Marc Bonaguide about residential placements. Marc is the Clinical Supervisor at The Glenholme School based in Washington, Connecticut. The Glenholme School, also known as Devereux Glenholme School, is an independent coeducational therapeutic boarding school situated on over 110 acres in Washington, Connecticut. The program there has successfully serviced students with disabilities in need of residential support. We discuss why residential programs are necessary for some students and when parents might want to consider them. Join us! You can reach Marc here: mbonagui@devereux.org You can find The Glenholme School here: ...2021-02-1737 minSpecial Ed on Special EdSpecial Ed on Special EdLanguage is the Doorway to WisdomIn this episode, I speak with Jeff Bravin, Executive Director of the American School for the Deaf (ASD) in Hartford, CT to discuss the importance of a literacy and language rich environment (their version of LRE). Not only does ASD serve deaf and hard of hearing students, they also have a successful program for hearing and non-verbal students with Autism. Jeff's Bio: Jeffrey S. Bravin has been employed at the American School for the Deaf in West Hartford, CT since 2002. He is currently the Executive Director responsible for oversight of the school. He reports directly to the...2021-02-1041 minSpecial Ed on Special EdSpecial Ed on Special EdAn Unconventional LibrarianPam Margolis is An Unconventional Librarian! She loves book and she loves inspiring students to explore new literature to expand their world. She reviews both popular books and those emerging in their genre. During this episode, Pam talks about Flamingo Rampant books. They are an inclusive publisher that she recommends: https://www.flamingorampant.com/ Here’s where you can find Pam at her website: https://unconventionallibrarian.com/ TRANSCRIPT (not proofread) SUMMARY KEYWORDS book, kid, people, children, diversity, wheelchair, literature, read, write, issues, person, find, talking, friend, pam, important, black, thinking, special ne...2021-02-0352 minSpecial Ed on Special EdSpecial Ed on Special EdNow you're speakin' my language!Today I speak with Joulé Bazemore and Barb Coleman, Co-Coordinators of The Bridge Program at Wooster School, a program designed to address the needs of students with Language Based Learning Disabilities.  We discuss what these are, how they impact students, and how the Bridge Program has found a successful way to remediate these challenges for students within their typical classroom.  You can learn more about Wooster School and The Bridge Program here: https://www.woosterschool.org/ https://www.woosterschool.org/page.cfm?p=714 TRANSCRIPT (not proofread) SUMMARY KEYWORDS students, learning, program, tea...2020-12-1054 minSpecial Ed on Special EdSpecial Ed on Special EdDroppin' Knowledge!Today we talk to Mandy Favolaro & Missy Alexander about the Annual COPAA Conference. COPAA stands for Council of Parents Attorneys and Advocates, an organization dedicated to protecting and enforcing the legal and civil rights of students with disabilities and their families. Their primary goal is to secure high quality educational services and to promote excellence in advocacy and their Annual Conference is one of the ways in which they do it! If you aren't familiar with COPAA, join us to learn about one of the best conferences out there for parents of students with disabilities (and attorneys...2020-11-2542 minSpecial Ed on Special EdSpecial Ed on Special EdHow exceptional are you?Twice-exceptional (2e) children struggle because their gifts mask their challenges and their challenges mask their gifts. So, how do we educate 2e children? Today we are talking with super-mom and co-founder of Cajal Academy (cajalacademy.org), a private special education school in CT designed for 2e children. Cajal integrates intellectually-stimulating academics and expert therapies through highly-individualized but socially-engaged programs for children with verbal reasoning skills in the “above average” to “superior” range, with integrated support for learning, executive function, sensory processing, social, emotional and medical differences. We are going to discuss 2e children and the role neuroplasticity plays in programm...2020-11-2457 minSpecial Ed on Special EdSpecial Ed on Special EdSpecial Ed 101Special Ed 101 mp3 Thu, 11/19 9:46PM • 40:50 SUMMARY KEYWORDS child, special education, student, school district, parents, evaluations, education, iep, disability, attorney, iep meeting, mediation, state, due process hearing, least restrictive environment, timelines, hearing, school, procedural safeguards, decision Transcript:Today, I want to talk to you a little bit about special education, I realized that I haven't done a brief overview of special education, I did start off my podcast by going over the differences between special education and section 504, which are very important distinctions for parents to understand. But I thought at this po...2020-11-2040 minSpecial Ed on Special EdSpecial Ed on Special EdWonder twin powers ACTIVATE!Today we talk with Aubrey Schmalle, a registered occupational therapist, about Body Activated Learning to support attention and engagement.  This is an innovative, sensory-based program to support attention and engagement in children that can be embedded into the existing curriculum of any school environment. Schools and parents can implement this program as a universal design support for all classrooms to enhance every students’ ability to be more active learners. The outcomes include improved active listening, visual attention, and direction-following as well as greater independent learning skills and enhanced task completion. A little bit about Aubrey....  After graduating with a bach...2020-11-1149 minSpecial Ed on Special EdSpecial Ed on Special EdBack to School 2020: What's New?"Back to school" elicits images in my head of long lines in stationery stores, exorbitant shipping fees for backpacks I forgot to order, and the promise of a great new school year.  None of that, however, was part of back to school 2020, at least not for us. As we have learned, nothing is written in stone with COVID-19. Here in CT, we heard schools had to open at full capacity. Then they were allowed to consider a hybrid plan.  Now some are only offering virtual options and some withholding services from those taking the digital offerings. Special ed...2020-09-1635 minSpecial Ed on Special EdSpecial Ed on Special EdWhat's for dinner?Being a mom is hard on a good day but just because something is hard doesn't mean it can't bring you joy! Today I talk with Meredith Masony, a work-from-home mom of 3, helping other woman through one of the most isolating jobs they have: motherhood. We talk about her new book, her quest for self-discovery, & the fun that disabilities adds to the joy of parenting! Maredith is a wife, mother to three children, dog mom of two, and founder of That’s Inappropriate and That’s Inappropriate Parents. She started this community in October of 2014 beca...2020-09-0140 minSpecial Ed on Special EdSpecial Ed on Special EdLRE: Now what?What is the least restrictive environment? The one that is appropriate! And which one is that in the world of hybrid models where no one even knows what regular education looks like? Great questions. Join Stacey Tié and me as we discuss LRE, what that might look like now, and how to advocate for your child. More information about Stacey can be found on her website: https://wholechildadvocates.com/2020-08-1933 minSpecial Ed on Special EdSpecial Ed on Special EdAre we talking about the same thing?As parents contemplate their options for Fall 2020, the terms "online learning" and "virtual instruction" have become more commonplace than "unprecedented." Many students struggled to access their education in Spring of 2020, which made parents wary of the new digital components for Fall 2020. But what is that digital component and how can you advocate for the teaching modality your child needs? Lucky for us, Dr. Jennifer Walsh Rurak, Ed.D, is with us today and she talks to us about what successful instruction over the internet can look like. What is the difference between online learning and virtual instructional...2020-07-2944 minSpecial Ed on Special EdSpecial Ed on Special EdWhat is Autism in Black?Raising a child with Autism can be difficult for anyone, however, in the Black community there are additional challenges that may affect you. Although early intervention is key, African American children with autism are one to two years older than white children before they're even diagnosed! Maria Davis-Pierre is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor with extensive experience working with children on the spectrum and their families. In addition, Maria is the parent of a child with Autism. Maria’s passion is being an autism advocate with her mission being to bring awareness to the impact culture can ha...2020-07-1553 minSpecial Ed on Special EdSpecial Ed on Special EdWanna HANGOUT? I know just the SPOT!Where are your kids hanging out these days? Are they learning the social skills they need to navigate the world in-person AND online? To be a friend? To get a friend? To maintain a friend? And, what do Applied Behavior Analysis, Precision Teaching, Natural Environment Teaching (NET) have to do with any of this? This episode is what you need! Today I speak with Meghan Cave, M.Ed. BCBA LBA (CT) and Justyna Balzar, M.Ed. BCBA LBA (CT), co-founders of The Hangout Spot (https://www.thehangoutspotllc.com/), a behavior analytic social skills development center for children...2020-07-0852 minSpecial Ed on Special EdSpecial Ed on Special EdDiversity, INCLUSION, belonging... oh my?Amy Pleet-Odle is an inclusion coach and founder of Inclusion Focused Coaching. She brings nearly 50 years of experience in education to her coaching work. She's been an English teacher, special educator, department chair, secondary transition coordinator, state department specialist, college professor, and parent. And in this episode she talks to me about what inclusion really is, what it should look like, and how we get there! In other words, what you need to know about inclusion! Amy Pleet-Odle can be found at: https://amypleet.com/2020-06-2453 minSpecial Ed on Special EdSpecial Ed on Special EdSo, what are you doing this summer?ESY, or extended school year, provides students with services beyond the end of the school year for those who need it. While these services typically happen in the summer, they are not summer school. ESY is for students who would otherwise regress (more so than typical peers) over the long summer break or for students whose disabilities are such that they require services beyond the typical school year to meet their goals and objectives. Today, Diane Willcutts, a special education advocate, joins me to discuss ESY services. These services are critical to some children's success so we...2020-06-1848 minSpecial Ed on Special EdSpecial Ed on Special EdWhat traumatic event? Who has anxiety?Schools closed due to a global pandemic. If that's not enough to trigger you, what about having to stay home, having to go out, having to work, not working? And the cherry on top? You now need to oversee your child's education, whatever that is right now. Speaking of your child, their schedules have been obliterated, the people who support them daily gone, and the people caring for them now (that's you!) are spread so thin, quality time is nothing more than a mirage. Terry D'Elisa, Psychologist, PsyD, NCSP, joins me today to talk about why the...2020-06-1049 minSpecial Ed on Special EdSpecial Ed on Special EdTransition Skills, Assessments, and IEP Goals: Should they stay or should they go?The purpose of transition goals and objectives is to prepare your child for life after high school, whatever that may be for them. So now, all you need to figure out is what life after high school will look like for your child AND what skills your child will need to be there AND how to successfully teach those skills to your child. No pressure. Luckily, we have people like Muncie Kardos, Ph.D., OTR/L, ATP, to light the way! Muncie founded Kardos Educational Consulting, LLC, which provides families and schools with transition planning, occupational therapy...2020-05-2953 minSpecial Ed on Special EdSpecial Ed on Special EdSelf-Care: What have I done for me lately?The science tells us we feel AND do better when we attend to our own nutrition, physical activity, and mental health. So, what have you done for yourself lately! Dr. Marney White, clinical psychologist and Associate Professor at the Yale School of Public Health, joins us and she's going to tell us what we need to know about self-care! Especially now that parents are home with children all day due to the COVID-19 closures. We are scheduling like crazy but are we scheduling the right things? Those things you call a guilty pleasure could be...2020-05-2036 minSpecial Ed on Special EdSpecial Ed on Special EdCompensatory Services for Covid Closures: Can you comp my ed?What is compensatory education (comp ed) and who needs to know about it? It’s what children with disabilities are entitled to when they don’t get the services in their IEP (sound like anyone you know?) and the person who needs to know about it is YOU! Comp ed is educational services awarded to students with disabilities to make up for services they missed because of the school’s failure to provide a free appropriate public education (FAPE). Under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), students are entitled to these services not only to make up for missed...2020-05-1349 minSpecial Ed on Special EdSpecial Ed on Special EdTeaching at home during COVID: Crisis SchoolingWhat is crisis schooling? Exactly what you are doing now! Distance learning, educational opportunities, work packets, zoom sessions, and (in all your free time) don’t forget you have to work too! Catherine Whitcher is the founder of Master IEP Coach Mentorship®, a program that teach parents, educators, and any member of the IEP team how to build IEPs that truly prepare students for their future. Catherine coined the phrase Crisis Schooling after hearing parent concerns about their child’s IEP during the COVID-19 closures. Today we discuss what Crisis Schooling reall...2020-05-0650 minSpecial Ed on Special EdSpecial Ed on Special EdCommunicating with your school: You talkin to me?The most important skill you need as a parent of a child with a disability is communication. Communication with your child, communication with outside providers, and communication with your school! Today we talk about essential components of your communications and how to make them as transparent, efficient, and successful as possible! Good communication skill are of tremendous value for us in the world of special education parenting and advocacy. When the conversation is over, the parties are able to maintain a strong professional relationship, not a strained resentful one. When you are communicating with the...2020-04-2936 minSpecial Ed on Special EdSpecial Ed on Special EdExecutive Functioning Skills: Conjunction junction, what’s your (executive) function?Executive functions (EF) are much more than just organization! We need executive functions to be able to be flexible, generate ideas, problem-solve, hold information in our brain while completing a task, manage task demands, and monitor our own performance against some standard of what is needed or expected. Today we speak with Kit Savage, founder and managing director of Savage Advocates (https://www.savageadvocates.com/). In addition to special ed advocacy, Kit follows the Brown Model of ADD/ADHD (https://www.brownadhdclinic.com/) and Dr. George McCloskey’s research on Executive Functioning (http://www.georgemccloskeyphd.com/) to inform her co...2020-04-2244 minSpecial Ed on Special EdSpecial Ed on Special EdAnimal Assisted Play Therapy™ ExplainedWhat you need to know about Animal Assisted Play Therapy™! Today we talk with Diane Dioguardi, LPC, RPT, CAAPT, about what animal play therapy is, how it works, and who should do it. Diane is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Connecticut and a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in New York. She partners with her eight-year-old golden retriever, Shannon, who is AAPT-Approved and a Certified Facility Therapy Dog. When working with clients in private practice as well as in school districts, Diane incorporates into her practice play therapy and Animal Assisted Play Therapy™. Join us as we discuss what...2020-04-1553 minSpecial Ed on Special EdSpecial Ed on Special EdSpecial Education Legal Fund: Can I do this myS.E.L.F. or will I need help?Episode link: Special Education Legal Fund: Can I do this myS.E.L.F. or will I need help? Today we talk to Christine Lai whose journey as a parent led her to co-found Special Education Legal Fund (S.E.L.F.). We talk about challenges parents experience while advocating for their child(ren) and why they need special education legal services. You can find Christine at Christine@spedlegalfund.org You can find S.E.L.F. at specialedlegalfun.org Christine Lai, co-founder and Executive Director of Special Education Legal Fund, Inc (S...2020-04-0839 minSpecial Ed on Special EdSpecial Ed on Special EdSpecific Math Learning Disabilities: Would you like some Pi with that?Today we are speaking with Randy Ewart, also known as the CT Sped Math Dude (CTSpedMathDude.com), and he is going to tell us what we need to know about math and special education. Randy is a veteran math teacher whose son’s diagnosis of Autism helped shape his path into special education. Today, Randy works with students of all ages with disabilities of all kinds. He conducts assessments, provides instruction, and consults for both parents and school districts. Randy’s unique understanding of math and special education are what make his creative teaching style so successful for students. In f...2020-04-011h 05Special Ed on Special EdSpecial Ed on Special EdWhat's happening due to COVID: Do you want some lime with that Corona?Episode Link: https://ntkwdj.libsyn.com/episode-5-do-you-want-some-lime-with-that-corona Today we are discussing Coronavirus and how the pandemic effects your child's program and what you can do to preserve your rights during this uncertain time. As you all know by now, the school closures are not about preventing Covid-19 but rather slowing down the spread so that our healthcare system can manage it. My understanding is that our local hospital is already at capacity! It is likely this will be the new normal for a while so we will do our best to give you updates and tips...2020-03-2536 minSpecial Ed on Special EdSpecial Ed on Special EdAlternative Schools with Lockey CoghlinThere are so many reasons parents consider alternative programs for their children. I'm not talking about special education schools today, I'm talking about alternative programs that have the freedom and flexibility to offer out of the box schooling. While not specifically designed for students with disabilities, sometimes the nature of such programs (small classes, individual attention, smaller building, project based learning, nurturing environments, etc) allow them to meet the needs of the individual child as well as those of the larger group. Today we are meeting with Lockey Coughlin, founder and director of Education Without Walls, an...2020-03-1852 minSpecial Ed on Special EdSpecial Ed on Special EdIndependent Evaluators for IEEs with Dr. Erik MayvilleInitially published at "Need to Know with Dana Jonson" - the podcast was rebranded as "Special Ed on Special Ed" but I kept the old episodes so you don't lose any content! Enjoy! Transcript can be found at SpecialEd.fm Today we are with Erik Mayville, PhD, BCBA discussing the components of psycho-educational evaluations and what role independent evaluators play in the special education realm. Dr. Mayville is not only a licensed clinical psychologist but also a board-certified behavior analyst. He conducts independent diagnostic evaluations and educational placement evaluations for individuals with developmental disabilities. You...2020-03-0554 minSpecial Ed on Special EdSpecial Ed on Special EdSpecial Education (IDEA) vs. Accommodations (504) with Dana JonsonInitially published at "Need to Know with Dana Jonson" - the podcast was rebranded as "Special Ed on Special Ed" but I kept the old episodes so you don't lose any content! Enjoy! A transcript of this episode can be found at SpecialEd.fm "What makes an IEP different from a 504 Plan in special education?" "How can understanding these distinctions empower parents in advocating for their child's education?" "What are the key factors to consider when choosing between an IEP and a 504 Plan?" Discover the differences between IEPs and 504 Plans in the realm of special...2020-02-2636 minThe Daily RecordThe Daily RecordMaking difficult projects happen in BaltimoreDana Jonson, the Reinvestment Fund’s managing director for Maryland and Washington, spoke with The Daily Record for the Ground Up Podcast in late August at the fund’s offices. She discussed a variety of topics, including the challenges facing projects she invests in and how a potential recession could impact the fund. The post Making difficult projects happen in Baltimore  first appeared on Maryland Daily Record.2019-09-2328 minGround UpGround UpMaking difficult projects happen in BaltimoreDana Jonson, the Reinvestment Fund’s managing director for Maryland and Washington, spoke with The Daily Record for the Ground Up Podcast in late August at the fund’s offices. She discussed a variety of topics, including the challenges facing projects she invests in and how a potential recession could impact the fund.2019-09-2300 min