Special Education
Our Students Need Every Educator to Speak Up to Ensure DeVos Hears Our Support for Restorative Justice
In my decade in Chicago Public Schools as a social worker and currently as a behavioral health specialist, I’ve learned a great education goes beyond academics. Students can’t learn if they do not...
IEP
It's Not 'Inclusion' If You Leave Out Kids With Special Needs
Way back in 1990 on this day, then-President George H.W. Bush signed into law the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act, or IDEA. The law’s provisions stayed the same, but its name was changed...
Special Education
Why I Broke Up With My School District to Homeschool My Child With Special Needs
I grew up in public schools. I believe in public schools. But two years ago, I disenrolled my daughter, who has special needs. Then last year, I did the same with my other two kids. It was the right...
Special Education
#EdEquityChat Roundup: Is Education a Civil Right?
Yesterday evening, Education Post held an #EdEquityChat on Twitter based on answering the question, “Is Education a Civil Right?" In light of the current climate where Betsy DeVos and the Trump...
Special Education
Students Don't Learn From Suspensions But Restorative Justice Offers Opportunity
For the last few years, Chicago Public Schools has been working hard to change its discipline policies and practices to reduce suspensions and expulsions. Instead, the district is encouraging...
IEP
A Back-to-School Love Letter to Parents of Kids With Special Needs and Disabilities
Dear Fellow Parent Warriors, While every parent has strong feelings as a new school year approaches—excitement, nerves, even a little worry—our special tribe of parents with children who have IEPs...