The Law & Compliance
What federal law guarantees a Free Appropriate Public Education for students with disabilities?
IDEA
What is a PLAAFP statement?
Present Levels of Academic Achievement and Functional Performance
What does FBA stand for?
Functional Behavior Assessment
What is one way educators can advocate for equity in special education while staying compliant with IDEA?
By ensuring all students have access to individualized supports and inclusive opportunities based on their unique needs—not on convenience, funding, or placement tradition.
What does culturally responsive collaboration mean?
Valuing and incorporating diverse family perspectives and communication styles
What section of the IEP describes the student’s current academic and functional performance and how their disability impacts learning?
The PLAAFP (Present Levels of Academic Achievement and Functional Performance).
What does LRE stand for, and what does it mean?
Least Restrictive Environment – students learn with peers to the maximum extent appropriate
What makes a goal SMART?
Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, Time-bound
What is the purpose of a BIP?
To provide strategies to replace challenging behavior with positive alternatives
What is one proactive advocacy strategy educators can use?
Regular family communication, data-driven goals, or inclusive planning
Give one example of a cultural barrier in IEP meetings.
Language differences, unfamiliarity with SPED process, cultural norms about authority
What part of the IEP outlines what the student will achieve within a year and how progress will be measured?
The Annual Goals section.
Under IDEA, who must be part of the IEP team?
Parent, Gen Ed Teacher, SPED Teacher, Administrator, Student (when appropriate)
What should every IEP goal connect to?
State standards and student needs identified in the PLAAFP
Name one key element of an effective PBIS system.
Clear expectations, consistency, positive reinforcement
What is one example of inequity in IEP development, and how can it be addressed?
Parent voice overlooked → use interpreters, family surveys, or flexible meeting formats
What is one strategy to build trust with culturally diverse families?
Listen first, use plain language, involve interpreters, follow up after meetings.
In SEIS, what two sections document how and where services are provided to ensure compliance with the student’s Least Restrictive Environment (LRE)?
The Offer of FAPE/Services Page (listing minutes, frequency, location, and provider) and the Educational Setting Page(documenting placement and LRE percentage).