Elissa Green Kaustinen: Bridging Medical and School Systems for IEP Success

Send us a textIn this episode of Complex Kids, Simple Solutions, Michelle welcomes back Elissa Green Kaustinen, FAST Director at Chapman University’s Thompson Policy Institute and a trusted expert on navigating IEPs and special education systems. Elissa brings a rare, deeply collaborative perspective—bridging the often disconnected worlds of healthcare and education for families raising neurodivergent and complex kids.Michelle and Elissa dive into why parents so often feel shut out of the IEP process, what’s really happening behind the scenes in school meetings, and how caregivers can confidently advocate without needing a law degree. They also share the powerful role medical information can (and should) play in shaping school supports—and how Elissa supported Drake through some of his most challenging school transitions.This episode is packed with practical insight, vulnerable storytelling, and a refreshing reminder: you don’t have to navigate these systems alone.👤 About the Guest: Elissa Green Kaustinen is the FAST Director (Families, Agencies, and Schools Together) at Chapman University's Thompson Policy Institute and is based at the Thompson Autism and Neurodevelopmental Center. With a background as a school psychologist and district-level specialist, Elissa helps families bridge medical and educational systems to advocate effectively for their child's needs. She brings over two decades of experience in special education systems, program development, and inclusive advocacy—working directly with doctors, educators, and parents to align support plans that truly serve each child.🔗 Connect with Elissa: Website: Chapman University - Thompson Policy Institute Center: Thompson Autism and Neurodevelopmental Center