Families are essential members of their child’s educational team. Knowing how and when to raise concerns, make a request, or respond to a school decision can be confusing. This session will focus on effective ways families can communicate with school personnel while understanding the rights that support their participation in the special education process. We’ll discuss how to make requests in writing, prepare for various meeting types, document concerns, ask for clarification when something doesn’t make sense, and respond when you disagree with a decision. The goal is to help families feel prepared to participate meaningfully and know what steps they can take when questions or concerns arise.

Presenter:

• Cassie Santo has worked in special education in Vermont and Colorado since 2010. Most recently, she served as the State Director of Special Education for the Vermont Agency of Education. Throughout her career, she has developed resources and guidance for special education professionals across Vermont, including materials related to special education evaluation and implementation. She has also contributed to the development of alternate assessments as a test item writer for Dynamic Learning Maps. Cassie currently teaches courses at Vermont State University, serves on the Vermont Family Network Board of Directors, and continues to contribute to special education through training, resource development, and work with educators and families. Her work focuses on making special education requirements understandable and on improving access and belonging for students with disabilities.