Find all the Let’s Talk Learning Disabilities Episodes Here, or Search by Topic!
Episode # 73 - More On 504 Accommodations
Laurie and Abbey welcome back Suzette, a 504 coordinator, to discuss 504 accommodations for learning disabilities like dyslexia, ADHD, dysgraphia, and anxiety. They highlight the importance of tailoring accommodations to each student's unique needs for the best support.
Episode # 71 - Notes from A 504 Coordinator
Laurie and Abbey meet with Suzette, a 504 Coordinator, to dive into the ins and outs of Section 504. Suzette explains the history, purpose, and how a 504 plan can best serve individuals with learning disabilities.
Episode # 70 - Types of Educational Evaluations
Laurie and Abbey break down the differences in evaluations, who can order or conduct them, and what the approval process looks like, including the typical timeline for getting things done.
Episode # 62 - Behavioral De-Escalation with Patrick Mulick
Laurie and Abbey continue their ‘intervention series’ with Patrick Mulick, a Board Certified Behavioral Analyst.
Patrick shares his insights on how to prevent challenging behaviors before they escalate and discusses proactive strategies to foster an environment where students feel supported, confident, and ready to succeed.
Episode # 46 - Understanding Intellectual Developmental Disorders – Evaluation, Services, and Support
In this episode, Laurie and Abbey explore intellectual developmental disorders (intellectual disabilities), discussing how individuals are diagnosed and evaluated. They also cover what educational settings look like for students with intellectual disabilities and what services are available, both during their school years and after transitioning out of the public education system.
Episode # 42 - Parent Advocacy in Special Education with Jen Benna
In this Episode, Laurie and Abbey chat with Jen Benna, a board-certified Behavior Analyst, about about supporting parents in the special education system.
Jen has developed resources and support programs for families and shares shares her experience creating resources and programs that help fill in information gaps for families, offering guidance on how to effectively advocate for children with special needs.
Episode # 25 - Special Education 101 - What The Public School Can and Cannot Do
In this episode, Laurie and Abbey interview former Special Education Director Nancy Isaacs about the public school evaluation and accommodation process.
Drawing from her experience in multiple roles within the education system, Nancy explains what families can expect and what public schools can—and can’t—do when it comes to evaluating and supporting students through special education services.
Episode #09 - Special Education and 504 Services
In this episode, Laurie and Abbey continue their previous conversation about 504 accommodations and take a deep dive into the world of special education.
They explore the guidelines and laws that govern special education, the qualification process, and the advantages and potential downsides of special education services, offering insights for families navigating the system to ensure the best support for their children.
Episode #08 - Understanding Section 504 Accommodations.
In this episode, Laurie and Abbey break down Section 504 accommodations—what they are, who qualifies, and how to get access. Learn how to advocate for support, prove the need for accommodations, and work with your school to create a personalized 504 plan that addresses learning challenges and sets students up for success.