The District of Columbia is characterized by historically high levels of special education disputes. Such disputes are compounded by the challenges faced by an urban community. This interactive session will explore the implementation of the Student-led Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) demonstration project in Washington, DC, the expansion of this initiative, and the impacts of self-advocacy and student engagement as a driver of change. As part of the initiative, the project team produced a film highlighting the efforts of DC students, families and schools to increase the involvement of youth with disabilities in their IEPS and prepare them to take a more active role in planning their features. Presenters will share clips from the film series and facilitate a dialogue. Participants will have the opportunity to share what they are doing around student engagement in their communities and try out various tools developed by the DC team.
The Center for Appropriate Dispute Resolution in Special Education
Supporting the prevention and resolution of disputes through partnership and collaboration
