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Highlighter's
Special Education Blog
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What to Do If the School Refused a Special Education Evaluation
If the school refused your request for a special education evaluation, it can feel confusing and frustrating. You’re worried your child may need extra support, and instead of getting help, you’re hearing no.
3 min read
3 Steps to Get Your Child’s IEP Back on Track This Semester
The second semester is a fresh start, but for many parents of children with IEPs, it can also feel like a race against time to catch up on p
4 min read
New Federal Data Shows Why State and Local Special Education Policy Changes Can't Wait
Every day, more than 7 million students with disabilities walk through the doors of America's public schools. That's roughly 1 in 6...
3 min read
Retaliation in Special Education: The Office of Civil Rights Has Your Back
Retaliation in special education is more common than most parents realize, and the impact can be devastating.
4 min read
School Climate Surveys: Special Education Caregiver's Voices Should be Heard
I remember staring at yet another school survey in my email inbox last year, my finger hovering over the delete button. Between making...
3 min read
From Overwhelmed to Empowered: How Smart Parents Are Revolutionizing Special Education Advocacy
The Harvard Family Research Project found a truth that seems both obvious and illuminating: Family engagement is one of the most effective..
4 min read
Special Education Teacher Shortage Crisis: A Historic Chance for Parent Action
Schools need proper federal support to solve the special education teacher shortage crisis.
4 min read
The Advocacy Tightrope: Mastering the Art of Follow-Up Communication in Special Education
What if mastering the art of the follow-up could transform you from a perceived nuisance into a respected collaborator?
8 min read
Your Advocacy Can't Wait for the Next IEP Meeting: Why Staying Engaged in our Children’s Education is More Important Than Ever
When did you last check in on your child's educational progress outside of an IEP meeting? If you're like many parents, you might find...
5 min read
Top 3 To-Dos for your Back-to-School IEP Action Plan
The school bells are ringing, and a new academic year is upon us! If you're feeling a bit behind on your IEP prep, take a deep...
5 min read
Lighting the Way: How Our Special Education Journeys Led to Highlighter
Imagine sitting across from your child's teacher, a stack of papers between you, filled with terms you don't understand and plans you're...
9 min read
How Does Your State Stackup? What You Need to Know About IDEA Implementation for the 2024-2025 School Year
Knowing where your state stands can help you be a more informed and effective advocate for your child's education.
3 min read
Possible Changes to Federal Special Education Policy in 2025: What Every Parent Needs to Know
The U.S. Department of Education released its 2024 determinations for state compliance with IDEA, and the results are eye-opening.
3 min read
Advocating for Your Kid: A Child-Centered Approach
For parents and caregivers trying to support their children with learning differences, advocacy is essential.
2 min read
Empowering Your Parent Advocacy in the New Year: Practical Resolutions to Make a Difference
As we welcome the New Year, it's an opportune time for parents and caretakers of children with special needs to set resolutions that can...
2 min read
"What do I even say?": Talking With Your Child's Teacher About Their IEP Services
Concerns about how to communicate effectively and respectfully with your child's teacher about accommodations and modifications are...
2 min read
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