About
This course offers an in-depth exploration of the legal and procedural framework governing special education in the United States, with a particular focus on the Individualized Education Program (IEP) process. Participants will gain comprehensive knowledge of key federal laws such as the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act, along with an understanding of critical legal precedents. The course equips educators, administrators, and advocates with the skills needed to navigate the IEP process effectively, ensuring compliance with legal mandates and promoting equitable, inclusive education for students with disabilities.
This course is a special pre-session being offered before the WEA Bargaining and Beyond Conference being held on Saturday, March 22. If you are interested in taking this learning and applying further to bargaining, advocacy and organizing, please make sure to register by following the link on the Washington Education Association Website. This session is also open to individual who wish to learn more about special education laws.
Courses
Special Educaton Law 2.0 (6hr)

Course Description
This course offers an in-depth exploration of the legal and procedural framework governing special education in the United States, with a particular focus on the Individualized Education Program (IEP) process. Participants will gain comprehensive knowledge of key federal laws such as the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act, along with an understanding of critical legal precedents. The course equips educators, administrators, and advocates with the skills needed to navigate the IEP process effectively, ensuring compliance with legal mandates and promoting equitable, inclusive education for students with disabilities.Course Objectives
Understand key federal laws, including IDEA, Section 504, and their implications for the IEP process.
Describe each step of the IEP process, including evaluation, eligibility determination, and goal setting.
Identify the roles and responsibilities of IEP team members and foster meaningful collaboration among educators, parents, and service providers.
Apply principles of Least Restrictive Environment (LRE) and Universal Design for Learning (UDL) to ensure IEPs support inclusive educational opportunities.
Navigate program changes, parental consent, and reevaluation processes within the context of IEP compliance.
Waitlist Limit: 0/10