Back-to-School Special Education Q&A: IEP Meetings, Teacher Certification, and Advocacy Tips

It’s August, it’s hot, and it’s time to talk about starting the school year strong! In this special Ask the Advocate Q&A, Karen Mayer Cunningham — the Special Education Boss® — answers real questions from parents, educators, and advocates on everything from calling IEP meetings to checking teacher credentials.

You’ll hear how to:

• Identify real reasons to call an IEP meeting (and avoid wasting time)
• Make sure accommodations start the first day of school
• Handle uncertified or unqualified staff in special ed classrooms
• Track down teacher and para credentials in your state
• Understand comparable service plans and timelines
• Advocate effectively when meetings get postponed
• Learn the rules on no-phone policies in schools (including Texas HB 1481)
• Start your journey as a special education advocate

Plus — tips for first-time paras, how to prune IEP accommodations, and why delayed special ed is still denied special ed.

📌 Links & Resources Mentioned:
📲 Download the Special Education Academy App
🎓 Join The Academy
📅 Register for the 2-Day Virtual Special Education Advocacy Intensive (Sept 27–28, 2025)
📧 Email the Team: [email protected]

“When we get it right for the child, we get it right for everybody.” — Karen Mayer Cunningham

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✨ When we get it right for the child, we get it right for everybody. ✨

👩‍⚖️ Hosted by Karen Mayer Cunningham, Advocate & Special Education Boss®
Each week, Karen shares real stories, legal insights, and no-nonsense strategies to help you navigate special education with clarity and confidence.

👉 Subscribe & never miss an episode — new episodes drop every week!
🎓 Join The Academy: Weekly live trainings + 250+ hours of advocacy tools & expert resources
🔗 Learn more at The Academy

📬 Have a question? Email us at [email protected]

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• TikTok & Instagram: @specialeducationboss
• YouTube: Special Education Academy

🧠 Want to level up your advocacy game?
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