Ask the Advocate: IEP Signatures, ESY Services, Compensatory Time & More

Feeling lost in the maze of special education? In this Ask the Advocate episode, Karen Mayer Cunningham answers rapid-fire questions about IEP signatures, extended school year (ESY), RTI, para support, compensatory time, evaluations, and more. Get clear, direct, and empowering guidance every parent and advocate needs.Inside this episode:✅ Why there’s no such thing as implied consent in an IEP✅ What schools must provide when a student is suspended or placed elsewhere✅ The truth about 504 vs. IEP (and why one doesn’t replace the other)✅ When and how to request compensatory services✅ What to know about evaluations, IEEs, and timelines✅ Understanding para support, self-contained programs, and out-of-district placements✅ Accommodations vs. modifications explained✅ The role of assistive technology and communication devices✅ Tips on ESY, dyslexia services, and caseloads✅ How to find and train as an advocate📌 Resources Mentioned:Federal Code of Regulations for IDEA (Individuals with Disabilities Education Act)U.S. Department of Education: ed.govSpecial Education Academy Trainings: https://specialeducationacademy.com/training✨ Ready to get trained and empowered?Join The Academy today for 250+ hours of on-demand trainings, live weekly coaching, and a supportive advocacy community.👉 Join The Academy📧 Need an advocate? Email: [email protected] Support the show✨ 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 Epic IEP™ Academy  First month free, after that, cancel anytime. 📱 Follow Karen on:TikTok & Instagram: @specialeducationbossYouTube: Special Education Academy🧠 Want to level up your advocacy game?Check out the Advocate's Bookshelf — a curated collection of must-have tools, guides, and legal references every special education advocate should own. From federal code to diagnostic manuals, these are the essentials that help you advocate with clarity and confidence.📚 Browse now: https://amzn.to/3RiQPLl(As an Amazon Associate, Karen may earn a small commission if you make a purchase — at no extra cost to you.)Because when...