Empowered 2 Advocate: Recent Episodes

Michelle Farrell

Our mission at Empowered 2 Advocate is for you to feel confident that you have the support, information, resources and expertise to be your child’s biggest advocate. Our goal is to make sure you get there. Listen each Friday for easy to digest and implementable tips, tools and strategies!

In this episode, Michelle discusses Response to Intervention (RTI) and Multi-Tiered Systems of Support (MTSS).

She clarifies the purpose and implementation of RTI, emphasizing its role in preventing academic struggles and providing valuable information for determining eligibility for special education.

Michelle explains the three tiers of support in RTI and the importance of evidence-based instruction and data-driven decision-making. She also highlights the benefits of RTI and MTSS, such as personalized support and reduced inappropriate referrals to special education.

Michelle addresses misconceptions about RTI and emphasizes the right of caregivers to request an evaluation for their child. The episode concludes with resources for further information.

Takeaways

RTI is a systematic approach to support students who are struggling academically, aiming to prevent the need for more intensive interventions or special education services.
RTI involves three tiers of support: Tier 1 provides core instruction for all students, Tier 2 offers targeted interventions for students who require additional support, and Tier 3 provides intensive interventions for students who are not responding to Tier 1 and 2 interventions.
RTI should be implemented with universal screening, frequent progress monitoring, evidence-based instruction, fidelity to instruction, and data-driven decision-making.
RTI can help identify students with specific learning disabilities and provide valuable information for developing Individualized Education Programs (IEPs).
Caregivers have the right to request an evaluation for their child, even if the child is receiving RTI interventions.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to RTI and MTSS

03:15 RTI as a Tool for Determining Eligibility for Special Education

09:01 Understanding RTI: Three Tiers of Support

21:43 Tier 2: Targeted Interventions

22:42 Tier 3: Intensive Support

26:19 Benefits of RTI and MTSS

31:38 RTI and the Evaluation Process

36:42 Requesting an Evaluation

38:37 Conclusion and Resources

Empowered 2 Advocate 1:1 Support Waitlist

View the instagram reel that prompted this episode:

Additional resources:

⁠RTI Module from IRIS center at Vanderbilt⁠

⁠OSEP Memo 1/21/2021⁠

⁠OSEP Memo 3/2023

In this episode, Dana Marie answers some questions from listeners and followers. She talks about:

OSEP: The Office of Special Education Programs
Reevaluation Meetings
Becoming a Special Education Advocate
Being prepared for an initial eligibility meeting
and more!

All About OSEP: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Kprl6bYcnGU

Summary

In this episode, Michelle and Dana reintroduce themselves and share their backgrounds and experiences in special education.

They discuss their passion for supporting parents and caregivers, as well as their approach to advocacy, which focuses on collaboration and conversation.

They emphasize the importance of breaking down barriers to information and promoting a student-centered approach in the IEP process.

They also highlight that their advocacy may not be a fit for everyone and that their goal is to solve as many problems as possible at the IEP table.

The episode concludes with fun facts about Michelle and Dana and an invitation for listeners to engage with them on social media.

Takeaways

Advocacy in special education should be collaborative and focused on conversation rather than confrontation.
Breaking down barriers to information is crucial in empowering parents and caregivers.
A student-centered approach is essential in the IEP process.
Advocacy may not be a fit for everyone, and it's important to find the right advocate for your needs.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Reintroduction

01:30 Background and Experience

03:26 Passion for Supporting Parents and Caregivers

05:58 Connection and Collaboration

08:14 Breaking Down Barriers to Information

09:42 Approach to Advocacy

11:19 Student-Centered Approach

13:10 Not a Fit for Everyone

14:27 Solving Problems at the IEP Table

15:20 Fun Facts

17:39 Engaging with Listeners

18:23 Closing Remarks

Summary

In this episode, Dana Marie and Michelle discuss the importance of well-written goals in Individualized Education Programs (IEPs). They highlight the need for goals to drive services and placement, as well as the role of goals in measuring student progress.

Michelle and Dana Marie provide guidance on crafting effective goals, including considering the current performance level, making goals measurable and challenging yet achievable, and aligning goals with grade level curriculum. They also emphasize the importance of individualizing goals to meet the specific needs and vision of each student. The episode concludes with a call for questions and comments on goals in IEPs.

Takeaways

Well-written goals in IEPs are crucial for driving services and measuring student progress.
Goals should be individualized, measurable, and aligned with grade level curriculum.
Current performance levels should be clearly stated, and objectives should be challenging yet achievable.
Goals should be purposeful and meaningful, considering the specific needs and vision of each student.
The 'so what' factor should be considered when setting goals, ensuring they lead to meaningful outcomes for the student.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and YouTube Plug

01:25 Repeating Conversations about IEP Goals

03:00 Importance of Goals in IEPs

04:38 Goals Driving Services and Placement

06:26 Components of a Well-Written Goal

08:57 Measuring Progress with Goals

09:26 Data-Driven Decision Making

10:51 Designing Instruction Based on Goals

12:17 Goals as an Afterthought

13:42 Lack of Progression in Goals

15:18 Key Elements of Well-Written Goals

17:36 Goals Aligned with Grade Level Curriculum

19:31 Importance of the 'So What' in Goals

22:00 Summary and Call for Questions

In this episode, Dana Marie interviews Amy Flores-Young of Flo Yo Travel.

Amy Flores Young (FloYo) is the founder of FloYo Travel and the creator of the IMPACT Retreat Roadmap. Amy is a specialist in planning travel for those with disabilities and chronic health needs. Not only does Amy have over 30 years experience in assisting those with disabilities, she is also the parent of a severely disabled adult and travels internationally as a family. This first hand experience and understanding of how travel deepens relationships gives Amy a unique ability to create spot on travel plans for her clients.

Amy shares her inspiration for starting Flo Yo Travel, which specializes in planning travel for individuals with disabilities and chronic health needs. She emphasizes the importance of travel in deepening relationships and creating lasting memories. Amy discusses the challenges faced by full-time caregivers and how travel can provide a break from the daily routine. She provides insights into the considerations and preparations involved in traveling with disabilities, including low-tech options and proactive planning. Amy also shares her favorite travel experiences and destinations, and encourages families to consider accessible travel.

Takeaways

Travel can deepen relationships and create lasting memories for individuals with disabilities and chronic health needs.

Full-time caregivers can benefit from taking a break from their daily routine and enjoying travel experiences with their families.

Proactive planning and considering individual routines and needs are essential for successful travel with disabilities.

Working with a travel professional who understands the unique challenges and needs of individuals with disabilities can make the travel experience smoother and more enjoyable.

Connect with Amy

website: www.floyotravel.com or email directly to Amy@floyotravel.com

FB: https://www.facebook.com/amy.floyo

LI: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amy-floyo/

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Amy Flores Young and Flo Yo Travel

01:25 Inspiration to Start Flo Yo Travel

03:22 The Impact of Travel on Relationships

04:41 Challenges of Being a Full-Time Caregiver

05:30 How Travel Differs from Daily Routine

06:31 The Extraordinary Effort of Having an Ordinary Day

07:01 Taking the Day-to-Day Routine into Account

08:41 Considerations Beyond Tangible Packing

09:38 Changing Destinations Based on Needs and Outcomes

10:37 Accommodating Routines and Expectations

11:36 Proactive Planning and Low-Tech Options

13:56 Becoming More Intuitive and Comfortable with Travel

17:53 Overcoming Barriers and Addressing Concerns

18:53 Thinking Outside the Box as a Travel Professional

20:53 Providing Low-Tech Supports and Solutions

23:14 Favorite Travel Experiences and Destinations

27:16 Encouraging Families to Consider Accessible Travel

27:46 Closing Remarks and Contact Information

In this episode, Dana Marie and Michelle discuss what happens after a child is found eligible for special education.

They provide guidance and information on various aspects of the IEP and special education process, including the initial eligibility meeting, developing the IEP, annual reviews, progress reports, communication with the school, rejecting consent for services, and requesting evaluations.

They emphasize the importance of understanding parent procedural safeguards and giving informed consent.

The episode concludes with resources for further information and support.

Key Takeaways

Parents should expect to be involved in the special education process after their child is found eligible.
The initial IEP may need to be adjusted as everyone learns more about the child's needs and supports.
Parents have the right to request additional evaluations or meetings with the school team outside of the annual review.
It is important to read and understand the parent procedural safeguards and give informed consent for the IEP.

Read more about this topic here! ⁠

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Background

00:54 Supporting Parents Leading Up to Eligibility Meeting

01:46 Parents' Questions and Concerns After Eligibility Meeting

03:15 Developing the Initial IEP

04:13 Annual Review and Three-Year Re-evaluation

04:56 Progress Reports and Monitoring

06:15 Contact Person and Communication with School

07:40 Meeting with School Team Outside of Annual Review

08:17 Rejecting Consent for Services and Requesting Evaluations

10:29 Importance of Parent Procedural Safeguards

11:56 Receiving Proposed IEP and Giving Informed Consent

14:32 Conclusion and Resources

In this episode, Michelle and Dana Marie discuss the importance of transition planning in the IEP process.

They emphasize the need to start transition planning early, especially for middle school students, and highlight the connection between a student's vision for their future and the skills they need to develop.

The hosts also address the challenges faced in middle school transition planning and the role of educators in supporting students.

They stress the importance of including the student in the transition planning process and provide guidance on advocating for their inclusion.

The episode concludes with gratitude for the listeners' support in spreading awareness about advocating for children with disabilities.

Takeaways

Transition planning should begin early, especially for middle school students.
A student's vision for their future should guide the transition planning process.
Educators play a crucial role in supporting students' transition planning.
Parents and caregivers should advocate for their child's inclusion in the transition planning process.

Transition

Email

Buckle in for the third and final part of the Empowered 2 Advocate special 3 episode series about school behavior and discipline!

Be sure to go back and listen to the first episodes in this series if you have not already listened!

In this episode we discuss:

Informal removals: what does this mean? Why are they problematic?
Is it ok to have the school requesting you pick your child up early? What happens if this is occurring often?
The difference between an informal removal and a team determined need for a shortened school day to receive FAPE.
What do we suggest you do if you are being called for an informal removal?
What is a formal removal?
Can students with disabilities be suspended?
What happens when a student with a disability is suspended 10 or more days?
The should a caregiver request a team meeting in relation behavior?
What is a manifestation determination? Who should be present? What is discussed? What is determined at these meetings and what happens next?
Importance of requesting information in writing and any incident reports so that you are fully aware of what is occurring at school in relation to behavior and discipline.
Preschool and daycare behavior regulations and your preschool child's rights.
The difference between rules that public preschools and private preschools are required to followed in relation to behavior, discipline and safeguards for students with disabilities who are in preschool.
The power of documentation! Keeping your documents and information organized and at your fingertips!

Resources referenced by Dana Marie in today's episode:

Discipline Provisions

Why Informal Removals Matter

Manifestation Determination

Free Document Binder Organization System

Free 20 minute initial consult with Empowered 2 Advocate

Whew! There are a TON of abbreviations, acronyms and just fancy lingo that is specialized to the world of education that gets tossed around at meetings and on the internet. For parents (and even educators!) this can become confusing, overwhelming and make it super challenging to fully participate in your child's meetings and conversations.

In this part 2 of our 3 part series on behavior, we are dialing in our focus to chat about Functional Behavior Assessments (FBAs), Board Certified Behavior Analysis's (BCBAs) and Behavior Intervention Plans (BIPs), also referred to as Positive Behavior Support Plans (PBSPs).

We discuss:

The four functions of behavior
What an FBA actually is
Who completes a behavior assessment
Giving consent for an FBA
What happens after an FBA is created
Data collection and analysis
Creation of a behavior plan
Adjustments to behavior plans
Progress reports
And more!

Be sure to also turn into our episode with Karyn Roy, BCBA from last season HERE as well as last week's epsidoe which was our first epsiode in this series on behavior HERE!

Don't miss our Pay What You Can Sessions coming up on November 8, 2023 and November 16, 2023. Learn more and schedule here!

In this first episode of a series on behavior, school discipline, and the rights of children with disabilities Dana Marie brings listeners through 5 Frequently Asked Questions we receive as advocates and parent coaches. She shares some tangible next steps with parents and caregivers who may be wondering:

what to do if your child is experiencing challenging behaviors but is not on an IEP.
what to do if you think your child needs an updated behavior plan.
what to do next if the school keeps calling you to pick up your child early.
and more.

If you have specific questions, we encourage you to take advantage of our free initial 20 minute consultation OR sign up for one of our November Pay What You Can dates: https://empowered2advocatescheduling.as.me/schedule.php

And if you are interested in reading the Department of Ed's blog series or diving a bit deeper into the statistics mentioned in this episode, here is a link to Blog Post that Dana Marie talks about in this episode: https://sites.ed.gov/osers/2023/03/discipline-discussions-changing-our-mindset-discipline-inequities/#more-5406

A question form parents that has comes fairly regularly is "my child's teacher or service provider is out on leave or the position is open and my child is not receiving their services. What do we do?"

And this a tough one because of the teacher shortage and the challenges school districts are having hiring and retaining high quality staff for our students, especially post-pandemic. Even if the district is trying their best, your child still deserves to have access to their services as outlined on their IEP to give the FAPE (Free and Appropriate Public Education). So what can you do as a caregiver/parent?

Know what your child’s services are on their iep and keep track of missed time
Open up communication!!
Email the team chair/ ETL or team to find out if someone is subbing for those services, how many sessions missed, how acccomodatins are being provided etc.
Request a meeting to discuss the impact on their progress. If there’s is someone providing the services such as an Educational Support Professional, request they be at meeting to discuss how the accommodations/modifications are being provided
Familiar yourself with the concept of ompensatory services and how to advocate for these to ensure your child is able to continue to progress and recoup and skills that regressed due to missed services.

If you have concerns about your child missing services or accomodations/modifcations not being provided while an educator or service provider is out on leave or there is an open position, reach out and schedule a 20 minute consult with us today to see how we can help you!

SCHEDULE HERE

Stay in touch with us by joining our twice a month newsletter!

JOIN HERE!

Wondering how an advocate can help you and you child in school? A comprehensive record review, either as part of an on-going advocacy relationship (i.e.: attending meetings, ghost writing, completing observations, etc) or as a stand alone support service is so beneficial for caregivers to be able:

to identify gaps in their child's documents and services that may be impacting your child's progress
to ensure these documents align with your child's abilities and that they are fostering growth in all areas
to asses the consistency of document content, compliance with legal requirements and verify accuracy of information
to equip caregivers and parents with knowledge and confidence to effectively communicate during meetings

Find out more about our record review services HERE and scheudle your intital consult today!

Want to start with a free 20 minute consult to see all the ways we can support you? Click here to schedule!

Live in the Boston area and listening to this episode before September 28, 2023? Join us at our caregiver retreat at the Salty Buddha in Peabody, Ma for an hour and a half of relaxation and self care! There will be a gentle yoga practice followed by reiki and sound bath!

Check out all the details here and see you then!

If you are a parent or caregiver of a child on an IEP it is likely that you have heard that term "effective progress" many times. It is one of the ways a team determines if a child is eligible for special education and a way to monitor how the child is doing once they are receiving the support of an IEP. But what is it really and how do you know if your child is actually making progress?

In this episode, we will give you FOUR ways to check in on your child's progress throughout the school year. We will take a quick dive into:

Progress Reports
Evaluation Results
School and District Assessments
and asking for work samples

Have concerns about your child's progress?

Reach out and schedule a free 20 minute consultation with us here: https://empowered2advocatescheduling.as.me/schedule.php

Thank you for listening!

In this episode we talk all about self care. We discuss:

small things you can do to care for yourself while also caring for a child or children with a disability
locating your local SEPAC (Special Education Parent Advisory Council)
looking to local organizations for parent and caregiver support groups and networking events
finding community online
Empowered 2 Advocate's Parent and Caregiver retreat on September 28th (link below)

Here are some links to things we mentioned on the podcast today:

Our event at the end of September: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/empowered-2-advocate-parent-and-caregiver-retreat-tickets-688163293937?aff=oddtdtcreator

The Association for Autism and Neurodiversity: https://aane.org/

Sign up for our newsletter here: https://www.empowered2advocate.com/stayconnected

Join us for a free 20 minute consultation here: https://empowered2advocatescheduling.as.me/schedule.php

Welcome back to season 3 of the Empowered 2 Advocate Podcast!

If you are tuning into this episode then you probably have a child that is returning to school this fall - and you might be having anxiety about where their IEP process was left in the spring or concerned about how extended school year went this summer.

Our biggest piece of advice is to try to not panic and reframe this as an opportunity for a "fresh start"

Back to school is a great time to get organized so all of your child's paperwork is at your finger tips (try our binder organization system HERE!), schedule an initial consult with us HERE, and/or schedule a comprehensive record review HERE!

This is also the perfect time to reach out to your child's team and introduce self, your child and open up the lines of communication with your child's team; which might be totally new this year! This is also a perfect time to request to meet with the team to get the ball rolling on any discussions that were left open in the spring. We have a blog just for you with sample language and sentence stems that you can use to write your email!

Happy Fall!

If your child has a disability, they very likely have a team of specialists that they work with - inside and outside of school. And like we've discussed on other episodes of the Empowered 2 Advocate Podcast, this can feel very overwhelming. Trying to know and remember who does what can feel like a full time job sometimes!

In this episode, Michelle and Dana Marie have the pleasure to chat with Dr. Jennifer Hutton (AKA Dr. J Pop!) who is a pediatric physical therapist and advocate. Dr. Hutton’s mission is to facilitate spaces of connection, accountability, constructive challenging of ideas, and community learning; helping others strengthen their voice and stance as changemakers in their workplaces and communities.

We dig in during this episode with an incredibly rich conversation touching on topics such as:

What does a pediatric physical therapist do?
What is the difference between a physical therapist and occupational therapist?
What a typical PT session could look like for your child
The importance of collaboration between school therapists and clinic based therapists
The importance of bodily agency and consent for children
Meeting children and families at accessible entry points for effective and impactful treatment
Screening and assessment tools that physical therapists and occupational therapists utilize and recognizing the bias that is found in these assessments
Why it is so important to you to incorporate joy and fun into movement and care
Discussion about collective trauma and how this impacts caregivers, therapists, and educators and the importance of taking care of ourselves as well as our children.
The evolution of discipline and social emotional learning in schools

About our guest, Dr. Jennifer Hutton (she/her)

Find Dr. JPop on instagram @Dr.Jpop!

Learn more about the Get Movin' Activity Deck

Listen to the Beyond Allyship Podcast

Dr. Jennifer Hutton is a pediatric physical therapist from Nashville, TN.
She graduated from Loma Linda University with her Doctorate in Physical Therapy in 2008. She has worked both in the clinic and from 2018-2022 she taught continuing education for RockTape’s FMT Education.
Working with families from marginalized communities allowed Dr. Hutton to see the health and healthcare access disparities that existed and sparked her desire to be an advocate outside of the clinic. In February, Dr. Hutton published The Get Movin’ Activity Deck for Kids. This deck is for all levels of ability to celebrate movement diversity and explore fun categories of creative movement including breath, stretch, mobility, stability, balance, coordination, strength, and endurance.
Dr. Hutton educates others on how to be effective allies to BIPOC and other marginalized communities through her Anti-Racism and Allyship workshop series, her membership program Building Allyship, and her podcast Beyond Allyship.
Dr. Hutton’s mission is to facilitate spaces of connection, accountability, constructive challenging of ideas, and community learning; helping others strengthen their voice and stance as changemakers in their workplaces and communities.

Summer time can be challenging enough to find fun activities for the whole family; but when a family member has a physical, emotional, sensory, or cognitive disability, a whole other layer of planning comes into play to ensure a fun and safe day for all!In this episode of the Empowered 2 Advocate podcast, Michelle and Dana Marie chat about 5 of their favorite summer activities (and resources!) in the Boston area that improve accessibility and inclusivity for ALL families! Download our FREE Boston accessible summer fun guide for more than 20 other activities for you and your family this summer! CLICK HERE! Have experiences or ideas fro additional activities? Please email us at empowered2advocate@gmail.com so we can add to the guide to share with our families!

While an IEP is reviewed annually to update progress and services and goals, caregivers have the right to request a team meeting anytime in between these annual reviews.

In this episode of the Empowered 2 Advocate Podcast, Michelle discusses 6 reasons that caregivers should request a reconvene of the IEP team, how she recommends caregivers should request, when to request and important timelines around one of the reasons in particular!

Michelle goes in depth to these 6 reasons to request an IEP team meeting, other than the annual review:

To discuss progress - whether your child is struggling to make progress or has mastered one or many of their goals!
To discuss outside evaluation reports and consider their recommendations
When your child is discharge from a hospitalization, receives a new or updated or change in diagnosis, or symptoms of a medical condition or medication have changed
If you notice any behavior or social emotional changes at home and/or at school
Transition meetings -can be invaluable when your child is transitioning to a new school (i.e. preschool to kindergarten, middle school to high school) or a new placement
To discuss with your child's team any transformative or dramatic life events that your child could be experiencing that are or could impact them in school.

collaborative

In this episode, Dana Marie gives an overview of the service providers you may see on your child's IEP and at their IEP meeting. She covers:

understanding the role of the SLP, AAC specialist, AT specialist, BCBA, RBT, OT, PT, ETL and School Psychologist.
unpacking the acronym for each service provider.
the difference between the school team members who work directly with your child and those who work in overseeing roles.
how to make sure the right people are at the IEP table.
And more!

It's the end of the school year and everything feels like it's moving in a million different directions with a sense of urgency that can feel overwhelming and chaotic.

Our number one piece of advice is to take a deep breath and remember that most things that are feeling urgent now, CAN be addressed in the fall when everyone is feeling refreshed and renewed, including you.

So what can you do to feel proactive now and over the summer to be ready to go first thing in the fall? That's what Michelle and Dana Marie discuss in this episode of the Empowered 2 Advocate Podcast!

Tune in today and be sure to follow on Spotify or apple (or YouTube!).

Have questions? Reach out at empowered2advocate@gmail.com or schedule your complimentary consult with us HERE

When a team writes an IEP, it's important that all the pieces are in alignment and are working together to support the student in accessing their grade level content. There ARE numerous parts to an IEP and it can be overwhelming to understanding how we get from point A to point B and how all the pieces line up! In fact, many teams actually work backwards, starting at placement when placement should actually be determined and driven by the services not the other way around.

In this episode of the Empowered 2 Advocate Podcast, Michelle and Dana Marie discuss:

The various parts of the IEP and how they should all align with the student's disability, how they learn, and giving access to the learner's education
How data should be the driving force in creating challenging but achievable goals
How and when services can be delivered
The goal of delivering services in the Least Restrictive Environment (LRE)
The Least Restrictive Environment continuum
The purpose of progress reports
and more!

Have questions about your child's IEP and if it is in alignment with their disability and the needs? Schedule a free 20 minute consult with us to see how we can support you!

Schedule HERE

Stay in touch with us with our bi-weekly newsletter!

Join HERE

If you've been to an IEP meeting for your child, you should be asked about your concerns or, for you parent concern statement.

The parent concern statement is one of the most important parts of the IEP; and a pace for caregivers to express what they are concerned about when it comes to their child's progress in school.

In this episode, Dana Marie and Michelle share with you their top tips for creating and writing a parent concern statement that truly captures what you want to share with the team and have included in the IEP.

We discuss:

When to submit and share your parent concern statement to the team
What topics and pieces of data you might want to share as part of your concern statement
How to structure your concern statement to ensure it is concise and easy for the school team to follow

Want support crafting your parent concern statement? We can help! Schedule your initial consult with us today!

In this episode Dana Marie and Michelle chat with Melissa Derr, Assistive Technology Specialist. Melissa works in Early Intervention at Easter Seals in Pennsylvania and has experience assessing and implementing assistive technology plans for children of all ages.

In this episode Melissa helps us dive into many important questions like:

What is Assistive Technology?
What is the role of an Assistive Technology Specialist on the IEP team?
How does the IEP determine what assistive technology is useful and needed by the student to improve access to their education?
What are common examples of assistive technology that one can find in a classroom?
How can assistive technology support all learners?
And more!

In this episode Dana Marie and Michelle chat with James Norris, founder of Handi Capable Fitness a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to helping people get out, be active, and be proud of the life they live. James is also the author of Feeling Left Out, the first in a series of four children's books that highlight how children deal with the challenges of growing up. When James' left his broadcasting career a few years ago, he set out to make positive changes for himself and in turn has impacted the lives of so many others.

In this episode we discuss:

The power of sport and movement in people's lives.
The ADA code and making fitness and ALL spaces more accessible for folks with disabilities.
The importance of allowing kids to make mistakes and fail so they can learn, grow, and learn to advocate for themselves.
The value of fostering independence.
The importance of authentic representation of people with disabilities in movies, books, jobs and more.
The challenges of the red tape of disability benefits and how knowledge is power when applying for benefits.
How educators can make a true difference on the lives of their students.

Want to know more about our guest?

Be sure to follow James on Instagram @Handi_Capable_Fitness and visit his website HandiCapableFitness.com and order Feeling Left Out HERE!

In our first ever guest episode, Michelle and Dana Marie chat with Karyn Roy, a Board Certified Behavior Analyst at a K-8 school who supports students with a variety of disabilities in both the inclusion and the substantially separate setting.

In this episode we discuss:

What is a BCBA?
How do BCBAs help students in schools access their education?
When might a BCBA be a part of a student's IEP team?
Why a team approach to behavior change is so important.
The importance of consistency.
ABA: the shift to a more compassionate and trauma informed methodology.
The four functions of behavior: sensory, escape, attention, and tangible.
The importance of assessment, data collection and adaptations to plans based on that data.
The value of student and family involvement in designing interventions.
The importance of considering cultural values and belief systems when designing interventions.

And more!

Five Things You Need to Know About the MCAS. In this episode we talk about

The MCAS as a graduation requirement.
The MCAS Decision Making Tool and annual review.
The Alternate Assessment.
Why your child's disability category and classroom do not determine how they participate.
And some considerations for accommodations on the assessment.

Want more information?

Decision Making Tool here: https://www.doe.mass.edu/mcas/alt/essa/decision-tool.pdf

MCAS Resources for Parents and Guardians here: https://www.doe.mass.edu/mcas/parents/default.html

Want to talk specifically about your child and their access to the MCAS? Reach out and schedule a free 20 minute consultation with us here: https://empowered2advocatescheduling.as.me/schedule.php

Thank you for listening!

In this episode we dive into the topic of Least Restrictive Environment. We discuss:

what it is in the simplest terms
how it is protected by IDEA
the continuum of settings and placements in Special Education
how students can be supported in an inclusion setting
the benefits of including students with disabilities
what to look for when questioning whether your child is in the appropriate placement
and more!

IDEA: https://sites.ed.gov/idea/topic-areas/#LRE

Schedule a free 20 minute consultation with us here: https://empowered2advocatescheduling.as.me/schedule.php

In this episode, hear how Empowered 2 Advocate might be able to support you. We discuss:

how educators can benefit from our support.
why an observation of your child in their school setting may be helpful for you.
how E2A can review documents and help make sense of them for you.
how E2A can help you write and review communication to and from the school.
and more!

Want to learn more? Schedule a free 20 minute consult with us here: https://empowered2advocatescheduling.as.me/schedule.php

In this episode, Dana Marie and Michelle re-introduce themselves and talk about where they came from and what inspired them to start Empowered 2 Advocate!

Hear from Dana Marie and Michelle as they talk about their backgrounds in special education, what they are passionate about, and how Empowered 2 Advocate came to be.

Want to learn more about them and Empowered 2 Advocate?

Head to our website: www.empowered2advocate.com

Think working with Dana Marie and Michelle might be a good fit? Schedule a free 20 minute consultation to get started: https://empowered2advocatescheduling.as.me/schedule.php

Under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) there are procedural safeguards and due process laws and protocols to ensure students with disabilities are given access to their Free and Appropriate Public Education (FAPE).

Part of these laws are timelines that must be adhered to by public school systems in the United States. While each state has their own guidelines, they must follow federal law when they create there's.

In this episode, Michelle and Dana Marie review some the most important special education timelines for parents and caregivers to be aware of:

timelines for evaluations
timelines for invitations to team meetings
timelines to receive and respond to draft IEPs

Have questions about your child's IEP or evaluations? Schedule a FREE 20 minute consult with us today! Schedule here!

Check out the Empowered 2 Advocate blog HERE!

You have concerns about your child's progress in school. You request an evaluation. At the meeting, the school district determines your child is not eligible for an IEP (special education). What are the next steps after the meeting that you as a parent can follow to ensure your child is receiving what they require to access their education?

In this episode, we discuss (from a lens of Massachusetts law):

A review of the eligibility process
Reasons a student may not be eligible for special education
A caregiver's next steps after the meeting
An overview of the mediation process
Resources for parent's to request a mediation
Can you re-request an eligibility meeting?

Resources

How to request a mediation in Massachusetts
Empowered 2 Advocate's eligibility blog and webinar
Schedule your 20 minute FREE consultation with us today!

This episode is all about getting organized! Be sure to head to www.empowered2advocate.com to download your FREE binder organization system! CLICK HERE

Being prepared for you child's meeting supports you with being better able to fully participate in your child's IEP meeting and understand the why's of recommendations service providers are making. But in the ocean of paperwork that you receive for your child, what papers are most important to keep and have at your fingertips to be able to review and bring with you to meetings?

In this episode of the Empowered 2 Advocate podcast Michelle and Dana Marie discuss:
Why January is a great time to get your child's paperwork in order
What paperwork you should have easy access to
How having access to these items will enhance your ability to participate in your child's meeting
A quick action step you can take today to get the ball rolling if all of this feels overwhelming

Be sure to head to www.empowered2advocate.com to download your Free binder organization system! CLICK HERE

Wondering how we can support you and your child this school year? Schedule your complimentary consult with us! CLICK HERE

Stay in touch! Subscribe to our bi-monthly newsletter! CLICK HERE!

December break and end of the school year are 2 big times for caregivers and parents to be wondering, "what are great gift ideas for my child's teachers and therapists that they will actually love and use to say thank you!"

In this special episode of the Empowered 2 Advocate Podcast, Dana marie and Michelle share some of their favorite and most memorable gifts they have received over the years as well as ways to have your child be involved!

What are some gifts your child's teachers have loved? Are you a teacher? What are some of the most memorable gifts you have received from students?

We invite you to schedule your 20 minute complimentary consult with us to discuss ways Empowered 2 Advocate can support you and your child navigate the special education process.

Schedule HERE

Stay in touch! Be sure to follow us on the podcast platform your are listening on so you never miss a new episode which drop every Friday! and join our newsletter community for service updates, upcoming webinars and events, and special offers!

SIGN UP HERE

In part 5 of this 5 part series on student voice and including students in their IEP process, we discuss how to support students of all ages (3-22) with unique communication, emotional, and behavioral needs.

In this episode we:

•Discuss strategies for gathering information about students' interests, accomplishments and strengths in various ways when a student utilizes a communication tool such as an iPad or communication board

•Suggestions educators and caregivers for bringing the student's voice to the meeting even if they will not be at the meeting

•The importance of including ALL students in their IEP process even if it is a challenge for them to attend their meeting and/or gather the information and capture their voice

Have questions or suggestions for including students in their IEP meetings and their IEP process? Email us empowered2advocate@gmail.com

We invite you to schedule your 20 minute complimentary consult with us to discuss ways Empowered 2 Advocate can support you and your child navigate the special education process.

Schedule HERE

Stay in touch! Be sure to follow us on the podcast platform your are listening on so you never miss a new episode which drop every Friday! and join our newsletter community for service updates, upcoming webinars and events, and special offers!

SIGN UP HERE

In part 4 of this 5 part series on student voice and including students in their IEP process, we dig into the preschool and elementary school years (3-10 year olds).

In this episode we:

Discuss strategies for gathering information about students' interests, accomplishments and strengths
Suggestions educators and caregivers for bringing the child's voice to the meeting even if they will not be at the meeting
The importance of cultivating a growth mindset and confidence in abilities as young as possible

Have questions or suggestions for including preschool and elementary students in their IEP meetings? Email us empowered2advocate@gmail.com

We invite you to schedule your 20 minute complimentary consult with us to discuss ways Empowered 2 Advocate can support you and your child navigate the special education process.

Schedule HERE

Stay in touch! Be sure to follow us on the podcast platform your are listening on so you never miss a new episode which drop every Friday! and join our newsletter community for service updates, upcoming webinars and events, and special offers!

SIGN UP HERE

In part 3 of this 5 part series on student voice and including students in their IEP process we dig into the middle school years, grades 5-8, ages 10-13ish. In this episode we discuss:

How to have conversations with your child / students about their disabilities and disabilities and learning differences in general
How to discuss with them what their IEP is, why they have it and getting their input on what is useful for them for learning and what isn't useful.
Getting student involved as early as possible about how they learn and how different students learn differently
How the conversation about learning and students' learning styles tends to drop off in the middle school years and why it's important to disrupt that trend
Strategies for opening up the conversation with the students, validating their visions for their future selves, and collaboration between home and school
Discussions and inputs about what accommodations are useful or not useful with students, including ones for state standardized tests

Have questions or suggestions for including students 14-22 in their IEP meetings? Email us at empowered2advocate@gmail.com

We invite you to schedule your 20 minute complimentary consult with us to discuss ways Empowered 2 Advocate can support you and your child navigate the special education process!

SCHEDULE HERE

Stay in touch! Be sure to follow us on the podcast platform you are listening on so you never miss a new episode (every Friday!) and join our newsletter community for service updates, upcoming webinars and events, and with special offers! SIGN UP HERE

In this second part of our 5 part series about the power of student voice in the IEP process Dana Marie and Michelle focus on students aged 14-22. While teams are legally obligated to include students in their meetings and IEP process, specifically their vision and Transition Planning Form, at age 14, and having legal signing rights at age 18, there are so many other reasons that this inclusion of students in their educational planning has a positive impact for the student.

In this episode we discuss how this inclusion of students in their meetings and IEP planning helps to shift the focus of the meeting to being strength based, keeps teams student centered and allows students to feel empowered and connected to their education. We also discuss ways to support students with becoming more involved and active participants in their education.

Stay tuned for part 3 next week about middle school students!

Have questions or suggestions for including students 14-22 in their IEP meetings? Email us at empowered2advocate@gmail.com

We invite you to schedule your 20 minute complimentary consult with us to discuss ways Empowered 2 Advocate can support you and your child navigate the special education process!

SCHEDULE HERE

Stay in touch! Be sure to follow us on the podcast platform you are listening on so you never miss a new episode (every Friday!) and join our newsletter community for service updates, upcoming webinars and events, and with special offers! SIGN UP HERE

In this 5 part series, Michelle and Dana Marie dig into the power of student voice in their IEP and education in general. In this episode we discuss what is student voice, why we care and give an overview of what we will discuss in the upcoming 4 episodes! Be sure to subscribe / follow us wherever you are listening and if you find this helpful, please share with friends, family members, fellow caregivers and/or educators!

🥳 Reach out to schedule a consult and see how we can help you through the Special Education process. https://empowered2advocatescheduling.as.me/schedule.php

Find us at: website: www.empowered2advocate.com

instagram: @empowered2advocate

Email: empowered2advocate@gmail.com

You Tube: @empowered2advocate

Pinterest @empowered2advocate

Facebook: @empowered2advocate

Linked In: @empowered2advocate

This podcast episode is based on a live webinar we hosted on 11/8/2022! There was such great information in this webinar, we wanted to share with all of you! Check it out and be sure to subscribe / follow the podcast on your favorite platform (apple, Spotify, google) so you never miss an episode! We release episodes every Friday and would love to hear form you about what would be the most useful! Email us at empowered2advocate@gmail.com with suggestions, comments, and questions!

About today's episode:

With all the great information out there about education and special education, there's also a lot of misconceptions and misinformation too. It can be confusing, especially if special education is not your area of expertise - and it shouldn't have to be for caregivers who want to be the best advocates for their children! Building your toolbox with tips, tools and strategies so you are more knowledgable and therefore more confident is the best way to support your child.

In this webinar, Michelle and Dana Marie bust the top 10 myths and misconceptions they hear about special education. This information is designed to be useful for parents and educators who want to know more about the special education process. If this was useful, be sure to subscribe to our channel so you never miss any of our content!

Have questions? Be sure to schedule a complimentary 20 minute consult with us today! CLICK HERE

Stay in touch by subscribing to our newsletter! We send out helpful tips and strategies that we don't always include on social media as well as special invitations to upcoming events to our newsletter folks at least 2 times a month! CLICK HERE

Website: www.empowered2advocate.com

Watch on YouTube! @empowered2advocate

Welcome to Empowered 2 Advocate! We're Michelle and Dana Marie and our mission is that when caregivers and parents work with Empowered 2 Advocate you will feel confident that you have the support, information, resources and expertise to be your child’s biggest advocate. Our goal is to make sure you get there.

In this weekly podcast, released every Friday, you can expect quick and timely tips, strategies, and tools that you can add to your parent toolbox and implement right away to support your child in all phases of the special education process!

Reach out to schedule a consult and see how we can help you through the Special Education process.

Click HERE to schedule you free 20 minute consult with us today!

Find us at:

website: empowered2advocate.com

instagram: @empowered2advocate

You Tube: @empowered2advocate

Pinterest @empowered2advocate

Facebook: @empowered2advocate

Linked In: @empowered2advocate