Don't IEP Alone.

Send us a text Content mentioned in episode: IEP vs 504: What’s the Same? And Which is Better to Have? In this episode, Lisa addresses significant changes within the US Department of Education and the impact these could have on IDEA and Section 504, including legal battles and personnel changes at the Office of Civil Rights. She explores the pros and cons of IEPs versus 504 plans, highlighting the importance of these legally binding documents in ensuring children with disabilities receive the education they deserve. Lisa also discusses the importance of community and resistance movements in protecting rights under attack, providing listeners with insight and strategies to navigate these uncertain times. Join Lisa as she shares her perspectives and encourages listeners to stay informed and engaged in advocating for disability rights. Don't IEP Alone with Lisa Lightner, Special Education Advocate Thank you for listening to this episode of Don't IEP Alone. See you next time! Support the show 📣 Exciting News! You can now preorder my book on Amazon, Books-A-Million, Bookshop.org or Barnes & Noble! 📣 📚 Bookshop.org has it on sale! 📚 More IEP help for you--at home or at school-- 📊 Free IEP Data Collection Sheets (for school staff) 📒 Free IEP Binder for Parents ☑️ IEP Goal Tracking Sheets for Parents 🧰 IEP Toolkit for Parents 👩‍💻 Online Advocacy Training 🙋 Ask an Advocate your IEP Question 🧰 ...

Links: 15 Evidence-Based Social Skills Interventions That Actually Work in IEPs 101 Social Skills IEP Goals for all Ages, including Objectives (free PDF) Join host Lisa Lightner as she navigates the evolving landscape of podcasts and embraces the simplicity of an unedited, heartfelt conversation. In this episode, Lisa emphasizes the importance of returning to IEP-focused content amidst the current distractions in the world. She delves deep into the pressing concerns about social skills that many parents and educators face today, particularly in the aftermath of the pandemic and the current socio-political climate. Lisa shares insights on the essential foundations for social skills, the role of executive functioning, and offers practical strategies for parents to foster these skills at home. Tune in as she provides valuable resources and underscores the need for both schools and parents to work hand-in-hand in nurturing effective communication and social interaction in children. Don't miss out on Lisa's personal stories and actionable advice that are sure to guide you in your journey of advocacy and parenting. Don't IEP Alone with Lisa Lightner, Special Education Advocate Thank you for listening to this episode of Don't IEP Alone. See you next time! Support the show More IEP help for you--at home or at school-- 📊 Free IEP Data Collection Sheets (for school staff) 📒 Free IEP Binder for Parents ☑️ IEP Goal Tracking Sheets for Parents 🧰 IEP Toolkit for Parents 👩‍💻 Online Advocacy Training 🙋 Ask an Advocate your IEP Question 🧰 How to Collect IEP Data in the Classroom without losing your mind!

Thanks so much for tuning into my simple little podcast about IEPs. I promise to get it cleaned up and a regular content schedule--starting next week. Links to flash sale: https://adayinourshoes.org/advocacy-training-flash-sale/ Link to advocacy action items: https://adayinourshoes.com/administration-for-community-living-acl/ Don't IEP Alone with Lisa Lightner, Special Education Advocate Thank you for listening to this episode of Don't IEP Alone. See you next time! Support the show Other ways I can help you with IEPs: 📊 Free IEP Data Collection Sheets 📒 Free IEP Binder for Parents ☑️ IEP Meeting Preparation Kit 🧰 IEP Toolkit for Parents 👩‍💻 Online Advocacy Training 🙋 Ask an Advocate your IEP Question 🧰 IEP Teacher Toolkit

Sorry, this episode cuts off abruptly for some reason, and I don't have time to re record it today. Links to flash sale: https://adayinourshoes.org/advocacy-training-flash-sale/ Welcome back to "Don't IEP Alone" with your host, Lisa Lightner. It's April 1st, and we've got a jam-packed episode for you, beginning with an exciting announcement. In honor of April Fool's Day, Lisa is offering a special 50% discount on her "Don't IEP Alone" Academy. With the theme "advocacy is no joke," listeners can take advantage of this offer using the coupon code "no joke." Lisa also discusses the importance of real advocacy as we step into Autism Awareness and Acceptance month. She urges us to focus on substantive issues like funding, civil rights protections, and the dismantling of crucial agencies rather than getting caught up in debates over symbols. Join Lisa as she emphasizes the need for unity and vocal advocacy for the issues that matter most to our families. Plus, stay tuned for details about her upcoming book, already available for preorder. Let's dive in! Don't IEP Alone with Lisa Lightner, Special Education Advocate Thank you for listening to this episode of Don't IEP Alone. See you next time! Support the show Other ways I can help you with IEPs: 📊 Free IEP Data Collection Sheets 📒 Free IEP Binder for Parents ☑️ IEP Meeting Preparation Kit 🧰 IEP Toolkit for Parents 👩‍💻 Online Advocacy Training 🙋 Ask an Advocate your IEP Question 🧰 IEP Teacher Toolkit

Links to flash sale: https://adayinourshoes.org/advocacy-training-flash-sale/ Link to advocacy action items: https://adayinourshoes.com/administration-for-community-living-acl/ Welcome to a special Monday edition of the "Don't IEP Alone" podcast with your host, Lisa Lightner. On this episode, Lisa dives into pressing issues in the advocacy world, starting with an urgent flash sale on her Don't IEP Alone Academy, designed to make advocacy training more accessible amid increasing demand for advocates. Lisa then turns her attention to a critical development regarding the Administration for Community Living (ACL). Robert F. Kennedy Jr.'s recent announcement to dismantle this crucial agency, which prevents unnecessary institutionalization and supports both disabled individuals and senior citizens, has stirred concern. Lisa emphasizes the ripple effects this change could have, especially on disabled rights and services, and urges listeners to take action by contacting lawmakers. Listen in to learn how you can advocate for continued support and services for our communities. The time to unite and protect essential rights is now. Don't miss out on this impactful episode. Don't IEP Alone with Lisa Lightner, Special Education Advocate Thank you for listening to this episode of Don't IEP Alone. See you next time! Support the show Other ways I can help you with IEPs: 📊 Free IEP Data Collection Sheets 📒 Free IEP Binder for Parents ☑️ IEP Meeting Preparation Kit 🧰 IEP Toolkit for Parents 👩‍💻 Online Advocacy Training 🙋 Ask an Advocate your IEP Question 🧰 IEP Teacher Toolkit

Discussed in episode: The End of the Department of Education? What Parents and Teachers Need to Know Now That link includes action items for parents and teachers. Welcome to another episode of "Don't IEP Alone" with your host Lisa Lightner. In today's episode, Lisa addresses the widespread concerns of parents navigating the potential impacts of recent political changes on special education and related services. As a mother of a child with disabilities and an advocate, Lisa shares personal insights and historical perspectives, calming nerves while rallying listeners to prepare and act. With discussions around executive orders, potential disruptions in educational funding, and federal versus state responsibilities, Lisa lays out what we might expect in the coming months. She emphasizes the importance of solidarity, preparedness, and the power of collective action in safeguarding the rights and resources necessary for our children's education. So, grab a cup of coffee, take a deep breath, and join us as we delve into how to advocate effectively during uncertain times. Don't IEP Alone with Lisa Lightner, Special Education Advocate Thank you for listening to this episode of Don't IEP Alone. See you next time! Support the show Other ways I can help you with IEPs: 📊 Free IEP Data Collection Sheets 📒 Free IEP Binder for Parents ☑️ IEP Meeting Preparation Kit 🧰 IEP Toolkit for Parents 👩‍💻 Online Advocacy Training 🙋 Ask an Advocate your IEP Question 🧰 IEP Teacher Toolkit

In today's episode of "Don't IEP Alone," host and special education advocate Lisa Lightner dives into a critical topic she's been passionate about for months—the truth behind the role of the United States Department of Education and the misleading narratives around state control over public education. Lisa sheds light on the General Education Provisions Act (GEPA) of 1974, which restricts the federal government from dictating curriculum in public schools, emphasizing that education has always been a state-controlled affair. She also discusses the potential consequences of dismantling the Department of Education, such as fewer protections for states and local school boards. Additionally, Lisa explores how political movements and misinformation are impacting school board elections and influencing educational policies. Tune in to gain a deeper understanding of these vital issues and discover resources that can support your child's educational journey. Read it: They said "Return Public Education to the States." They lied. Mentioned in Podcast: Anxiety at School ToolkitHow to Know if Your Child's IEP is WorkingDon't IEP Alone with Lisa Lightner, Special Education Advocate Thank you for listening to this episode of Don't IEP Alone. See you next time! Support the show Other ways I can help you with IEPs: 📊 Free IEP Data Collection Sheets 📒 Free IEP Binder for Parents ☑️ IEP Meeting Preparation Kit 🧰 IEP Toolkit for Parents 👩‍💻 Online Advocacy Training 🙋 Ask an Advocate your IEP Question 🧰 IEP Teacher Toolkit

Welcome to a brand new episode of "Don't IEP Alone" with your host, Lisa Lightner. Today, we're diving into a significant court case involving the General Education Provisions Act (GEPA) from 1974 that the new administration recently lost. This case underscores the vital role states play in determining educational curriculum and the longstanding prohibition on federal overreach. Lisa explores why local and state elections matter more than ever, especially as groups like "Moms for Liberty" make waves by influencing school board decisions. We also take a closer look at the implications of the GEPA on federal funding decisions, the executive branch's limitations, and the power of grassroots change. Plus, don't miss the introduction of Lisa's new anxiety at school toolkit, designed to empower you to better advocate for your child's needs. Let's unravel these complex issues and discover how they impact you and your family. Don't IEP Alone with Lisa Lightner, Special Education Advocate Thank you for listening to this episode of Don't IEP Alone. See you next time! Support the show Other ways I can help you with IEPs: 📊 Free IEP Data Collection Sheets 📒 Free IEP Binder for Parents ☑️ IEP Meeting Preparation Kit 🧰 IEP Toolkit for Parents 👩‍💻 Online Advocacy Training 🙋 Ask an Advocate your IEP Question 🧰 IEP Teacher Toolkit

A bill just passed in the House that could mean big cuts to Medicaid—even though the word Medicaid isn’t in it. Sound sneaky? That’s because it is. In this episode, I’m breaking down: ✅ What this bill actually does ✅ The myths about Medicaid fraud that keep getting repeated (and why they’re bogus) ✅ Why we must take action—today, not tomorrow ✅ How to call, email, and visit your senator to make your voice heard Our kids need us to fight for them. No one is coming to save us—it’s on us to push back. We are NOT the minority. The majority of Americans are fed up, and it’s time to act. 🔗 Links to scripts, templates, and resources: https://adayinourshoes.com/medicaid-cuts/ Don't IEP Alone with Lisa Lightner, Special Education Advocate Thank you for listening to this episode of Don't IEP Alone. See you next time! Support the show Other ways I can help you with IEPs: 📊 Free IEP Data Collection Sheets 📒 Free IEP Binder for Parents ☑️ IEP Meeting Preparation Kit 🧰 IEP Toolkit for Parents 👩‍💻 Online Advocacy Training 🙋 Ask an Advocate your IEP Question 🧰 IEP Teacher Toolkit

In this episode of Don't IEP Alone, host Lisa Lightner delves into the intricacies of IDEA (Individuals with Disabilities Education Act) and the implications of public versus private education for children with special needs. Lisa provides a historical overview of IDEA's origins, linking it to a significant Pennsylvania court case that laid the groundwork for the legislation. She explores the ongoing challenges public schools face in providing a Free Appropriate Public Education (FAPE) due to financial constraints and the political push towards privatization. With a critical lens, Lisa discusses the concept of vouchers and charter schools, arguing against them as solutions for educational inequity. Instead, she advocates for strengthening public education funding to ensure all children, especially those with disabilities, receive the education they deserve. Join Lisa as she unpacks these complex issues, highlighting the political nature of educational policies and their real-world impact on families navigating the IEP process. Link to join training mentioned in episode: https://adayinourshoes.org/dont-iep-alone-academy-sale/ Don't IEP Alone with Lisa Lightner, Special Education Advocate Thank you for listening to this episode of Don't IEP Alone. See you next time! Support the show Other ways I can help you with IEPs: 📊 Free IEP Data Collection Sheets 📒 Free IEP Binder for Parents ☑️ IEP Meeting Preparation Kit 🧰 IEP Toolkit for Parents 👩‍💻 Online Advocacy Training 🙋 Ask an Advocate your IEP Question 🧰 IEP Teacher Toolkit

Welcome to a special edition of Don't IEP Alone with your host, Lisa Lightner. In this episode, Lisa shares her insights and reflections ahead of the weekend's big event – the Super Bowl. As Philadelphia Eagles fans gear up for an exciting game, Lisa discusses how current events and social dynamics are creating a whirlwind of emotions. She touches upon the fast-paced changes happening in the world politically and socially, and encourages listeners to focus on what truly matters by selecting key areas to engage in advocacy and change. Above all, she emphasizes the importance of maintaining joy and finding healthy coping mechanisms amidst challenging times. Join Lisa as she inspires us to protect our peace, prioritize our passions, and celebrate even amidst the chaos. Whether it's a football game or personal milestones, Lisa reminds us to find happiness and stand firm against negativity, advocating for a brighter future. Tune in and let's enjoy the journey together! Don't IEP Alone with Lisa Lightner, Special Education Advocate Thank you for listening to this episode of Don't IEP Alone. See you next time! Support the show Other ways I can help you with IEPs: 📊 Free IEP Data Collection Sheets 📒 Free IEP Binder for Parents ☑️ IEP Meeting Preparation Kit 🧰 IEP Toolkit for Parents 👩‍💻 Online Advocacy Training 🙋 Ask an Advocate your IEP Question 🧰 IEP Teacher Toolkit

In this episode of "Don't IEP Alone," host Lisa Lightner welcomes back attorney Laura Hennigan to discuss the complex and ever-evolving landscape of special education and disability rights in the United States. They delve into the looming concerns surrounding the potential weakening of the IDEA and the US Department of Education's role amidst current political tumult. Laura, a Connecticut-based parent attorney with personal ties to special education, offers valuable insights into navigating the potential changes and challenges parents and advocates may face. They emphasize the importance of meaningful advocacy, staying informed, and focusing on what can be controlled in these uncertain times. Together, they explore practical strategies for parents and educators to protect the rights of children with disabilities. Tune in to gain a sense of hope, actionable steps, and a reminder of the importance of staying engaged in the fight for education equity. Laura Heneghan is a dedicated parent attorney specializing in special education. Her journey into this field was inspired by her personal experiences as a mother of children with disabilities. After successfully navigating the complex special education system for her own family, Laura recognized the opportunity to assist others facing similar challenges. Based in Connecticut, she is part of a supportive community of attorneys and advocates committed to making a difference. Laura values collaboration and continuous learning, having established a fruitful partnership with fellow advocate Lisa several years ago. Her passion and expertise drive her mission to empower families in their pursuit of educational equity. Don't IEP Alone with Lisa Lightner, Special Education Advocate The IEP process never gets easier. YOU get better. How? With specific action steps and training. Visit ADayInOurShoes.org for more information. Thank you for listening to this episode of Don't IEP Alone. See you next time! Support the show Other ways I can help you with IEPs: 📊 Free IEP Data Collection Sheets 📒 Free IEP Binder for Parents ☑️ IEP Meeting Preparation Kit 🧰 IEP Toolkit for Parents 👩‍💻 Online Advocacy Training 🙋 Ask an Advocate your IEP Question 🧰 IEP Teacher Toolkit

Lisa Lightner is the insightful host of "Don't IEP Alone," a podcast offering support and guidance for navigating the complexities of Individualized Education Programs (IEPs). Known for her engaging storytelling and timely discussions, Lisa tackles current events and timeless wisdom with equal dexterity. In an episode recorded just two weeks after the 2025 inauguration, she reflects on societal behaviors through the lens of Dale Carnegie's enduring advice from 1937: that people resist admitting they're wrong, even when faced with evidence. This philosophy shapes her understanding of the world and is particularly relevant with today's political climate. Exceptionally dedicated to her audience, Lisa adapts her publishing schedule to ensure listeners receive valuable content, demonstrating her commitment to providing timely and impactful episodes. Don't IEP Alone with Lisa Lightner, Special Education Advocate Thank you for listening to this episode of Don't IEP Alone. See you next time! Support the show Other ways I can help you with IEPs: 📊 Free IEP Data Collection Sheets 📒 Free IEP Binder for Parents ☑️ IEP Meeting Preparation Kit 🧰 IEP Toolkit for Parents 👩‍💻 Online Advocacy Training 🙋 Ask an Advocate your IEP Question 🧰 IEP Teacher Toolkit

In today's episode of "Don't IEP Alone," host Lisa Lightner candidly addresses the urgent issues arising from the recent federal spending freeze initiated by the new administration and its impact on Medicaid. As Lisa navigates the complex intersection of politics and disability advocacy, she sheds light on how unconstitutional executive orders are affecting millions of Americans, including her own family. Lisa discusses the broader implications of these political decisions, from healthcare access to infrastructure, emphasizing the need for informed and critical evaluation of government actions. She invites listeners to engage with her political action group, "Stepping Up for Disabled Kids," to voice their concerns and advocate for the necessary support their families require. Tune in for a passionate and informative discussion on the challenges and actions needed in these tumultuous times. Don't IEP Alone with Lisa Lightner, Special Education Advocate Thank you for listening to this episode of Don't IEP Alone. See you next time! Support the show Other ways I can help you with IEPs: 📊 Free IEP Data Collection Sheets 📒 Free IEP Binder for Parents ☑️ IEP Meeting Preparation Kit 🧰 IEP Toolkit for Parents 👩‍💻 Online Advocacy Training 🙋 Ask an Advocate your IEP Question 🧰 IEP Teacher Toolkit

Welcome to another episode of Don't IEP Alone with your host, Lisa Lightner. In this thought-provoking installment, Lisa shares her personal journey navigating autism advocacy as the parent of a disabled child. With candor and determination, Lisa challenges the prevailing narratives in the autism advocacy community, emphasizing the importance of genuine conversations over performative advocacy. She reflects on the evolution of her views on autism, informed by personal experience and online discourse, and discusses the broader implications these narratives have on funding, programming, and support for individuals with severe autism. Tune in as Lisa passionately advocates for those, like her son, whose voices are often unheard in these discussions. Autism Information and Resources AllisticHyperlexiaGestalt Language ProcessingPopular Books with Autistic Main CharactersHand Flapping When Excited, But Not AutismNoise Cancelling Headphones for AutismSensory Bin IdeasTransautistictransabledIEP for AutismInteroception ActivitiesPretend Play and AutismAutism IncontinenceEducational Autism vs Medical AutismDon't IEP Alone with Lisa Lightner, Special Education Advocate The IEP process never gets easier. YOU get better. How? With specific action steps and training. Visit ADayInOurShoes.org for more information. Thank you for listening to this episode of Don't IEP Alone. See you next time! Support the show Other ways I can help you with IEPs: 📊 Free IEP Data Collection Sheets 📒 Free IEP Binder for Parents ☑️ IEP Meeting Preparation Kit 🧰 IEP Toolkit for Parents 👩‍💻 Online Advocacy Training 🙋 Ask an Advocate your IEP Question 🧰 IEP Teacher Toolkit

Navigating the Journey of IEPs: Ownership, Change, and Accountability Welcome to another episode of Don't IEP Alone with your host, Lisa Lightner. In today's candid discussion, Lisa addresses the challenges faced by IEP (Individualized Education Program) parents and the importance of taking active ownership of the IEP journey. She shares her personal experiences and frustrations with parents seeking quick fixes rather than engaging in the ongoing process of advocacy. Lisa emphasizes the need for parents to be the driving force in improving their IEPs, as no one else is more motivated to do so. Tune in as she offers tough love advice, recounts her own obstacles and triumphs, and encourages listeners to take proactive steps toward achieving meaningful change. Whether you're a seasoned advocate or just starting your journey, Lisa's insights are sure to inspire action and empower parents to navigate the IEP landscape with confidence. Don't miss this empowering episode filled with practical advice and heartfelt encouragement. Don't IEP Alone with Lisa Lightner, Special Education Advocate Thank you for listening to this episode of Don't IEP Alone. See you next time! Support the show Other ways I can help you with IEPs: 📊 Free IEP Data Collection Sheets 📒 Free IEP Binder for Parents ☑️ IEP Meeting Preparation Kit 🧰 IEP Toolkit for Parents 👩‍💻 Online Advocacy Training 🙋 Ask an Advocate your IEP Question 🧰 IEP Teacher Toolkit

Very brief episode, a little of this and that....and what to do right now for your IEP advocacy. Mentioned in podcast: Stepping Up for Disabled Kids Online Advocacy Training Free Webinar: What can I ask for on my IEP? Don't IEP Alone with Lisa Lightner, Special Education Advocate Thank you for listening to this episode of Don't IEP Alone. See you next time! Support the show Other ways I can help you with IEPs: 📊 Free IEP Data Collection Sheets 📒 Free IEP Binder for Parents ☑️ IEP Meeting Preparation Kit 🧰 IEP Toolkit for Parents 👩‍💻 Online Advocacy Training 🙋 Ask an Advocate your IEP Question 🧰 IEP Teacher Toolkit

Welcome back to another episode of "Don't IEP Alone"! I'm your host, Lisa Lightner, and today we're diving into a topic that's been on the minds of many special needs parents: the potential dismantling of the Department of Education and the future of IDEA and health policies affecting our children. Joining us for this discussion is Michael Gamel-McCormick, the disability policy director for Senator Bob Casey. Michael brings a wealth of experience as a former special education teacher and an advocate in the realm of disability policy. In this insightful conversation, we explore the implications of possible changes in Washington, DC, such as the rumblings about a federal voucher program, potential funding cuts to IDEA, and the future of the Affordable Care Act. We're chatting about how these changes might impact our kids' education and healthcare. So, if you're a parent of a disabled child, this episode is packed with crucial information and expert advice that you won't want to miss. Let's jump right in. Don't IEP Alone with Lisa Lightner, Special Education Advocate The IEP process never gets easier. YOU get better. How? With specific action steps and training. Visit ADayInOurShoes.org for more information. Thank you for listening to this episode of Don't IEP Alone. See you next time! Support the show Other ways I can help you with IEPs: 📊 Free IEP Data Collection Sheets 📒 Free IEP Binder for Parents ☑️ IEP Meeting Preparation Kit 🧰 IEP Toolkit for Parents 👩‍💻 Online Advocacy Training 🙋 Ask an Advocate your IEP Question 🧰 IEP Teacher Toolkit

1. **New Weekly Episodes**: Lisa Lightner plans to release a new podcast episode every week starting in 2025. 2. **Political Action Group**: Lisa has launched a new political action group called "Stepping Up for Disabled Kids." 3. **Upcoming Book**: Lisa is writing a book scheduled to be released around back-to-school time in 2025 through Jossey-Bass Publishers. Don't IEP Alone with Lisa Lightner, Special Education Advocate Thank you for listening to this episode of Don't IEP Alone. See you next time! Support the show Other ways I can help you with IEPs: 📊 Free IEP Data Collection Sheets 📒 Free IEP Binder for Parents ☑️ IEP Meeting Preparation Kit 🧰 IEP Toolkit for Parents 👩‍💻 Online Advocacy Training 🙋 Ask an Advocate your IEP Question 🧰 IEP Teacher Toolkit

In this episode of "Don't IEP Alone," host Lisa Lightner shares her insights on navigating the end of the school year and the importance of parental engagement in the IEP process. Lisa emphasizes the benefits of her online advocacy training and encourages parents to plan their summer proactively to address any unresolved issues from the previous school year. She urges listeners to prioritize their efforts and focus on the key aspects of the IEP, while also reminding them to avoid getting bogged down by trivial matters. Tune in for valuable advice and practical tips on advocating for your child's education. www.adayinourshoes.com www.adayinourshoes.org Don't IEP Alone with Lisa Lightner, Special Education Advocate Thank you for listening to this episode of Don't IEP Alone. See you next time! Support the Show. More IEP Help for You IEP Toolkit for Parents and IEP Teacher Toolkit Online Training Options Search 650+ Articles Get a free IEP Organizer Get Your IEP Questions answered by an advocate