by Common Ground | May 17, 2025 | May 2025, Q&A
Disagreements in special education can feel stressful, but they don’t have to become battles. Most people on the IEP team want the same thing: for the student to succeed. By learning how decisions are made, understanding common issues, and knowing your rights,...
by Common Ground | May 17, 2025 | May 2025, Parents
by Joanne De Simon The first time I sat on the parents’ side of the table to create an individualized education program, my son was four months old. He had just been diagnosed with a rare, life-limiting brain malformation. I’d been to many IEP meetings as...
by Common Ground | Feb 13, 2025 | Features, February 2025
In special education classrooms, paraprofessionals can play a crucial role in helping students with disabilities access their education. Paraprofessionals work in a variety of capacities, from one-on-one aides to classroom assistants, providing individualized support...
by Common Ground | Feb 13, 2025 | February 2025, Professionals
While paraprofessionals in the special education classroom can offer much-needed support, there are potential drawbacks to over-relying on them. The role of the paraprofessional is meant to complement, not replace, the work of the teacher, and it is important to...
by Common Ground | Feb 13, 2025 | February 2025, Q&A
Assistive technology (AT) plays a transformative role in the education of students with disabilities, offering tools and devices that can support independence, enhance learning, and help students achieve academic success. In this Q&A, we explore the many ways that...
by Common Ground | Feb 13, 2025 | Courts, February 2025
Paraprofessionals are vital members of many special education teams, providing direct support to students with disabilities. These educational aides assist with a variety of tasks, including helping students complete assignments, supporting behavior management, and...
by Common Ground | Jan 17, 2025 | Features, January 2025 Special Policy Edition
The U.S. Department of Education (USDOE) plays an important role in special education. It helps to ensure that students with disabilities get an appropriate and equitable education. Through its Office of Special Education Programs (OSEP) and its work with other...
by Common Ground | Jan 17, 2025 | Features, January 2025 Special Policy Edition
The U.S. Department of Education (USDOE) monitors states for compliance with the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) in several key areas. These areas help ensure that students with disabilities receive the services and supports they need for a quality...
by Common Ground | Jan 17, 2025 | Features, January 2025 Special Policy Edition, Uncategorized
Policy leaders headed to Washington have proposed major changes to the U.S. Department of Education (USDOE) — some have suggested that it be “dismantled,” and others have suggested it be “abolished.” During his campaign, President Trump promised to “close the...
by Common Ground | Jan 17, 2025 | January 2025 Special Policy Edition, Parents
Project 2025 is a plan being considered by the Trump administration. It has the potential to change how laws and services work for people with disabilities, including special education. If this plan is put into action, some important protections, such as access to...
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