Special Education Essentials: For Parents & Families

David H. Tollner, Esq.

Welcome to the Special Education Essentials for Parents and Families podcast. Your host is attorney David Tollner. Special Education Essentials was created to impart knowledge and understanding for families with children who have learning disabilities, such as Autism, ADHD, Dyslexia, Anxiety/Depression, Vision and Hearing Impairment, etc. Guests of the podcast will be professionals in the special education and disability services industry who support children with special needs.

Episodes

  1. 07/30/2025

    Assessing Your Child’s Learning Challenges — Getting the IEP

    Special Education Essentials: For Parents & Families with David Tollner, Episode 12 In this episode of Special Education Essentials: For Parents & Families, David Tollner speaks about:  IDEA (Individuals with Disabilities Education Act) and its requirements for accommodating children with disabilities in the educational system Independent Educational Evaluations (IEE) — what is this and when is it needed Strategies for dealing with uncooperative school districts, including legal options and seeking private assessmentsThe significance of unilateral placement notices for securing appropriate educational services at public expenseDisclaimer: The law is complex and this podcast does not cover all situations, legal responsibilities, or variations in different circumstances. This podcast is for entertainment and informational purposes only and nothing contained in this podcast should be construed as legal advice. The views expressed in this podcast may not be those of the host or Tollner Law Offices. We are not responsible for any losses, damages, or liabilities that may arise from the use of this podcast. This podcast is not intended to replace legal advice.   Tollner Law Offices offers new clients in California a free 20-minute consultation. To get started, please complete the initial intake form by clicking on this link: https://tollnerlawoffices.cliogrow.com/intake/MriSWly5j2QEG-c5s3os8w)

    Assessing Your Child’s Learning Challenges — Getting the IEP

  2. 07/14/2025

    Tailoring Educational Programs for Students with Learning Differences with Julie Smith

    Special Education Essentials: For Parents & Families with David Tollner, Episode 11 In this episode of Special Education Essentials: For Parents & Families, David Tollner speaks with Julie Smith, Head of School at Stanbridge Academy. Tune in to the episode to hear about:  * Stanbridge Academy's programs, including their small class sizes, individualized learning plans, and social pragmatics training  * Stanbridge’s recent certification as a non-public school, which allows them to serve a broader segment of the population  * Stanbridge’s admission process, success stories, and the importance of preparing students for future educational opportunities, such as college and vocational training Learn more about Julie Smith:  * Visit Stanbridge Academy’s website: https://www.stanbridgeacademy.org  * Connect with Julie on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/julie-smith-0546a410  * Email: jsmith@stanbridgeacademy.org Disclaimer: The law is complex and this podcast does not cover all situations, legal responsibilities, or variations in different circumstances. This podcast is for entertainment and informational purposes only and nothing contained in this podcast should be construed as legal advice. The views expressed in this podcast may not be those of the host or Tollner Law Offices. We are not responsible for any losses, damages, or liabilities that may arise from the use of this podcast. This podcast is not intended to replace legal advice.   Tollner Law Offices offers new clients in California a free 20-minute consultation. To get started, please complete the initial intake form by clicking on this link: https://tollnerlawoffices.cliogrow.com/intake/MriSWly5j2QEG-c5s3os8w)

    Tailoring Educational Programs for Students with Learning Differences with Julie Smith

  3. 06/27/2025

    Innovative Special Education Solutions with Lisa O'Hearn-Keck

    Special Education Essentials: For Parents & Families with David Tollner, Episode 10 In this episode of Special Education Essentials: For Parents & Families, David Tollner speaks with Lisa O'Hearn-Keck, Dean of Students/Director of Community Outreach of Palo Alto Preparatory. Tune in to the episode to hear about: * How Palo Alto Preparatory supports children with special needs through experiential learning and individualized attention * How Palo Alto Prep caters to a wide range of students, including those with learning differences, ADHD, high-functioning autism, anxiety, and depression * The importance of a collaborative relationship with families, a safe and accepting environment, and unique programs * How Palo Alto Prep utilizes aviation and dogs to aid in reducing student anxiety * The distinctions between non-public schools (NPS) and private schools, detailing how NPS certification can affect district placement and legal processes for special education students Learn more about Lisa O'Hearn-Keck: * Visit Palo Alto Preparatory’s website: https://paloaltoprep.com/faculty-and-staff Disclaimer: The law is complex and this podcast does not cover all situations, legal responsibilities, or variations in different circumstances. This podcast is for entertainment and informational purposes only and nothing contained in this podcast should be construed as legal advice. The views expressed in this podcast may not be those of the host or Tollner Law Offices. We are not responsible for any losses, damages, or liabilities that may arise from the use of this podcast. This podcast is not intended to replace legal advice. Tollner Law Offices offers new clients in California a free 20-minute consultation. To get started, please complete the initial intake form by clicking on this link: https://tollnerlawoffices.cliogrow.com/intake/MriSWly5j2QEG-c5s3os8w)

    Innovative Special Education Solutions with Lisa O'Hearn-Keck

  4. 06/17/2025

    Dyslexia Decoded: A Guide for Parents with School Leader Kristen Atkins

    Special Education Essentials: For Parents & Families with David Tollner, Episode 9 In this episode of Special Education Essentials: For Parents & Families, David Tollner speaks with Kristen Atkins, Head of School at Winston Preparatory School. Tune in to the episode to hear about: - The importance of phonological awareness, foundational literacy skills, and progress monitoring using tools like the DIBELS to support students with dyslexia - The need for schools to train all teachers in foundational literacy skills, suggesting that effective reading instruction should be integrated across all subjects - The necessity for parents to be proactive, collect data on their child's reading progress, and advocate for evidence-based interventions during IEP meetings - The importance to focus on closing the educational gap for their children by ensuring consistent and targeted support from the school district Learn more about Kristen Atkins:  * Visit Winston Preparatory School’s website: http://winstonprep.edu  * Connect with Kristen on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kristen-atkins-9a80705 Disclaimer: The law is complex and this podcast does not cover all situations, legal responsibilities, or variations in different circumstances. This podcast is for entertainment and informational purposes only and nothing contained in this podcast should be construed as legal advice. The views expressed in this podcast may not be those of the host or Tollner Law Offices. We are not responsible for any losses, damages, or liabilities that may arise from the use of this podcast. This podcast is not intended to replace legal advice.   Tollner Law Offices offers new clients in California a free 20-minute consultation. To get started, please complete the initial intake form by clicking on this link: https://tollnerlawoffices.cliogrow.com/intake/MriSWly5j2QEG-c5s3os8w)

    Dyslexia Decoded: A Guide for Parents with School Leader Kristen Atkins

  5. 06/05/2025

    Community & Legal Support for Special Needs Families with April McCoy

    Special Education Essentials: For Parents & Families with David Tollner, Episode 8 In this episode of Special Education Essentials: For Parents & Families, David Tollner speaks with April McCoy, an attorney, who specializes in special education and school discipline defense. She now works at LACY, which stands for Legal Advocates for Children and Youth. LACY is a program of a larger nonprofit called the Law Foundation of Silicon Valley, which is the largest legal aid services nonprofit in Santa Clara County. Tune in to the episode to hear about: * April’s personal journey into special education advocacy and details the various services LACY provides * The importance of community resources and understanding local support systems for special needs children, especially regarding IEPs and special education programs * Key resources and organizations, including LACY, COPA, and Disability Rights California, which offer essential support and information for parents navigating special education systems. Learn more about April McCoy: * Connect with April on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aprildmccoy * View April's profile on Silicon Valley Law Offices’ website: https://www.svlo.com/attorney/mccoy-april-d * Read more about LACY: https://www.lawfoundation.org/children-youth Disclaimer: The law is complex and this podcast does not cover all situations, legal responsibilities, or variations in different circumstances. This podcast is for entertainment and informational purposes only and nothing contained in this podcast should be construed as legal advice. The views expressed in this podcast may not be those of the host or Tollner Law Offices. We are not responsible for any losses, damages, or liabilities that may arise from the use of this podcast. This podcast is not intended to replace legal advice. Tollner Law Offices offers new clients in California a free 20-minute consultation. To get started, please complete the initial intake form by clicking on this link: https://tollnerlawoffices.cliogrow.com/intake/MriSWly5j2QEG-c5s3os8w

    Community & Legal Support for Special Needs Families with April McCoy

  6. 05/23/2025

    Personalized Learning & Special Needs with Danielle Beiser of Fusion Academy

    Special Education Essentials: For Parents & Families with David Tollner, Episode 7 In this episode of Special Education Essentials: For Parents & Families, David Tollner speaks with Danielle Beiser, Director of Admissions, Fusion Academy. Tune in to the episode to hear about: - Understanding the IEP process, highlighting options like private schools for children not making progress in traditional settings - Fusion Academy's unique one-on-one educational model, which personalizes education to cater to various student needs, including those with special needs and twice-exceptional students - The benefits of personalized learning, such as flexible scheduling and tailored education plans that help students thrive academically, socially, and emotionally - Fusion Academy’s fully virtual program, Fusion Global Academy, which provides the same one-on-one education and community engagement opportunities as their brick-and-mortar campuses Learn more about Danielle Beiser:  * Visit Fusion Academy’s website: https://www.fusionacademy.com  * Connect with Danielle on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/daniellebeiser Disclaimer: The law is complex and this podcast does not cover all situations, legal responsibilities, or variations in different circumstances. This podcast is for entertainment and informational purposes only and nothing contained in this podcast should be construed as legal advice. The views expressed in this podcast may not be those of the host or Tollner Law Offices. We are not responsible for any losses, damages, or liabilities that may arise from the use of this podcast. This podcast is not intended to replace legal advice.   Tollner Law Offices offers new clients in California a free 20-minute consultation. To get started, please complete the initial intake form by clicking on this link: https://tollnerlawoffices.cliogrow.com/intake/MriSWly5j2QEG-c5s3os8w)

    Personalized Learning & Special Needs with Danielle Beiser of Fusion Academy

  7. 04/29/2025

    The Role of Psychologists in Special Ed & IEPs

    Special Education Essentials: For Parents & Families with David Tollner, Episode 6 In this episode of Special Education Essentials: For Parents & Families, David Tollner speaks with licensed psychologist (CA PSY17794), Brendan Pratt, Ph.D. Dr. Pratt is owner of The Pratt Center, which specializes in psychological testing and school meeting support in the Bay Area.  Tune in to the episode to hear about:  * The importance of comprehensive evaluations for children with learning disabilities to ensure accurate diagnoses and effective support strategies, emphasizing the critical role of keeping thorough records and active participation by parents  * The significance of recording IEP meetings for clarity and accurate documentation, as well as preparing meticulously for such meetings to ensure all concerns are addressed  * The common mistakes parents make, such as not keeping proper records or seeking evaluations prematurely, and offers guidance on the appropriate times and reasons to seek professional assessments Learn more about Dr. Brendan Pratt:  * Visit The Pratt Center’s website: http://www.prattcenter.com  * Call: 650-200-0053   * Email: info@prattcenter.com Disclaimer: The law is complex and this podcast does not cover all situations, legal responsibilities, or variations in different circumstances. This podcast is for entertainment and informational purposes only and nothing contained in this podcast should be construed as legal advice. The views expressed in this podcast may not be those of the host or Tollner Law Offices. We are not responsible for any losses, damages, or liabilities that may arise from the use of this podcast. This podcast is not intended to replace legal advice.   Tollner Law Offices offers new clients in California a free 20-minute consultation. To get started, please complete the initial intake form by clicking on this link: https://tollnerlawoffices.cliogrow.com/intake/MriSWly5j2QEG-c5s3os8w)

    The Role of Psychologists in Special Ed & IEPs

  8. 04/09/2025

    Providing Tailored Education to Children with Special Needs with Dr. Marina Vaserman

    Special Education Essentials: For Parents & Families with David Tollner, Episode 5 In this episode of Special Education Essentials: For Parents & Families, David Tollner speaks with Dr. Marina Vaserman, founder of Open Mind School and a foster parent in Santa Clara County and a Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA), championing the rights of vulnerable youth.  Tune in to the episode to hear about:  - The importance of specialty schools in providing tailored education to children with special needs, highlighting the unique approach of Open Mind School in Northern California, which focuses on inclusivity and lifelong learning  - The significance of creating engaging and flexible learning environments and details the school's extensive application process that ensures family involvement and partnership in the education journey  - An explanation of parents' legal rights under the IEP process, encouraging families to explore specialty schools if public schools are not meeting their child's needs and to seek legal avenues for funding these placements if necessary Learn more about Marina Vaserman:  - Visit Open Mind School’s website: http://openmindschool.org  - Connect with Dr. Vaserman on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marina-vaserman Disclaimer: The law is complex and this podcast does not cover all situations, legal responsibilities, or variations in different circumstances. This podcast is for entertainment and informational purposes only and nothing contained in this podcast should be construed as legal advice. The views expressed in this podcast may not be those of the host or Tollner Law Offices. We are not responsible for any losses, damages, or liabilities that may arise from the use of this podcast. This podcast is not intended to replace legal advice.  Tollner Law Offices offers new clients in California a free 20-minute consultation. To get started, please complete the initial intake form by clicking on this link: https://tollnerlawoffices.cliogrow.com/intake/MriSWly5j2QEG-c5s3os8w)

    Providing Tailored Education to Children with Special Needs with Dr. Marina Vaserman

  9. 03/25/2025

    The Importance of Collaboration in IEPs with Molly Matava

    Special Education Essentials: For Parents & Families with David Tollner, Episode 4 In this episode of Special Education Essentials: For Parents & Families, David Tollner speaks with Molly Matava, special education and IEP advocate. Tune in to the episode to hear about:  - Molly’s role in helping parents navigate the IEP process, emphasizing the importance of documenting information and collaborating with school districts  - The distinctions between what an advocate can do versus when it might be necessary to hire an attorney, stressing that most issues can be resolved without legal intervention  - The importance of understanding the IEP process and being prepared for educational transitions to ensure continued support for children with special needs Learn more about Molly Matava:  * Connect with Molly on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/molly-matava-davey-4817706 Disclaimer: The law is complex and this podcast does not cover all situations, legal responsibilities, or variations in different circumstances. This podcast is for entertainment and informational purposes only and nothing contained in this podcast should be construed as legal advice. The views expressed in this podcast may not be those of the host or Tollner Law Offices. We are not responsible for any losses, damages, or liabilities that may arise from the use of this podcast. This podcast is not intended to replace legal advice.  Tollner Law Offices offers new clients in California a free 20-minute consultation. To get started, please complete the initial intake form by clicking on this link: https://tollnerlawoffices.cliogrow.com/intake/MriSWly5j2QEG-c5s3os8w)

    The Importance of Collaboration in IEPs with Molly Matava

  10. 02/22/2025

    IEP 101: 10 Essential Rules for Meaningful Progress (Part 3)

    Special Education Essentials: For Parents & Families with David Tollner, Episode 3 In this episode of Special Education Essentials: For Parents & Families, David Tollner presents part 3 of his series, IEP 101: 10 Essential Rules for Meaningful Progress. Did you miss Parts 1 and 2? See them here:   * Part 1 — https://youtu.be/jhXx94b6Lfs  * Part 2 — https://youtu.be/3BYu0vhxcrw Tune in for these key takeaways: * The importance of having clear goals of what you want for your child's education * The importance of parents involving experts, such as therapists and privately funded specialists, in IEP meetings to provide valuable insights and recommendations * Use of Independent Educational Evaluations (IEE) as a means for parents to obtain and use outside expert assessments to challenge school evaluations * The importance of accurate records and detailed, data-driven discussions with a suggestion of using Parent Addendums to outline consent and objections to parts of the IEP *********************************** About Special Education Essentials: For Parents & Families  Welcome to the Special Education Essentials for Parents and Families podcast. Your host is attorney David Tollner. Special Education Essentials was created to impart knowledge and understanding for families with children who have learning disabilities, such as Autism, ADHD, Dyslexia, Anxiety/Depression, Vision and Hearing Impairment, etc. Guests of the podcast will be professionals in the special education and disability services industry who support children with special needs.  Disclaimer: The law is complex and this podcast does not cover all situations, legal responsibilities, or variations in different circumstances. This podcast is for entertainment and informational purposes only and nothing contained in this podcast should be construed as legal advice. The views expressed in this podcast may not be those of the host or Tollner Law Offices. We are not responsible for any losses, damages, or liabilities that may arise from the use of this podcast. This podcast is not intended to replace legal advice.   Watch more episodes of Special Education Essentials: For Parents & Families:  * https://specialeducationcounsel.com  * https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCdlPs4LOlySNZkoCB2G6bJA Connect and learn more from your host, David Tollner:  * Website: https://specialeducationcounsel.com  * Email: dtollner@tollnerlawoffices.com  * LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-tollner-162b657b

    IEP 101: 10 Essential Rules for Meaningful Progress (Part 3)

  11. 02/22/2025

    IEP 101: 10 Essential Rules for Meaningful Progress (Part 2)

    Special Education Essentials: For Parents & Families with David Tollner, Episode 2 In this episode of Special Education Essentials: For Parents & Families, David Tollner presents part 2 of his series, IEP 101: 10 Essential Rules for Meaningful Progress. This episode focuses on how to improve your child's IEP. Did you miss Part 1? See it here: https://youtu.be/jhXx94b6Lfs Tune in to hear about:  * Detailed strategies on how parents can better engage in the IEP process, such as knowing what they want to achieve, asking extensive questions, and reviewing reports * Understanding the importance of accurate baselines for goals in IEPs and the necessity of multiple goals if a child presents multiple deficit areas * The legal rights of parents in IEP meetings, urging them to be thorough in their participation and highlighting the consequences of not being adequately prepared Read Part 3: *********************************** About Special Education Essentials: For Parents & Families  Welcome to the Special Education Essentials for Parents and Families podcast. Your host is attorney David Tollner. Special Education Essentials was created to impart knowledge and understanding for families with children who have learning disabilities, such as Autism, ADHD, Dyslexia, Anxiety/Depression, Vision and Hearing Impairment, etc. Guests of the podcast will be professionals in the special education and disability services industry who support children with special needs.  Disclaimer: The law is complex and this podcast does not cover all situations, legal responsibilities, or variations in different circumstances. This podcast is for entertainment and informational purposes only and nothing contained in this podcast should be construed as legal advice. The views expressed in this podcast may not be those of the host or Tollner Law Offices. We are not responsible for any losses, damages, or liabilities that may arise from the use of this podcast. This podcast is not intended to replace legal advice.   Watch more episodes of Special Education Essentials: For Parents & Families:  * https://specialeducationcounsel.com  * https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCdlPs4LOlySNZkoCB2G6bJA Stay tuned for podcast links Connect and learn more from your host, David Tollner:  * Website: https://specialeducationcounsel.com  * Email: dtollner@tollnerlawoffices.com  * LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-tollner-162b657b

    IEP 101: 10 Essential Rules for Meaningful Progress (Part 2)

  12. 02/22/2025

    IEP 101: 10 Essential Rules for Meaningful Progress (Part 1)

    Special Education Essentials: For Parents & Families with David Tollner, Episode 1 In this inaugural episode of Special Education Essentials: For Parents & Families, your host, attorney David Tollner, introduces this new podcast and shares part one of his “IEP 101” series. The podcast aims to provide valuable information to parents navigating the Individualized Education Program (IEP) process for children with special needs. The first three episodes will impart 10 key rules to abide by when preparing for an IEP meeting to ensure these meetings are productive and that the child is progressing as much as possible.  Tune in to the episode to hear about:  * David’s extensive professional background, with a highlight on his transition from a business litigator to a passionate advocate for children with disabilities  * The first three of David’s 10 essential rules for families preparing for and getting through IEP meetings: #1 record the meeting; #2 be respectful but firm; and # be thoroughly prepared  * The importance of these practices in ensuring meaningful educational progress for children  * A glimpse into future episodes of the podcast featuring guests from the special education industry  View Part 2: https://youtu.be/3BYu0vhxcrw *********************************** About Special Education Essentials: For Parents & Families  Welcome to the Special Education Essentials for Parents and Families podcast. Your host is attorney David Tollner. Special Education Essentials was created to impart knowledge and understanding to families with children who have learning disabilities, such as Autism, ADHD, Dyslexia, Anxiety/Depression, Vision and Hearing Impairment, etc. Guests of the podcast will be professionals in the special education and disability services industry who support children with special needs.  Disclaimer: The law is complex and this podcast does not cover all situations, legal responsibilities, or variations in different circumstances. This podcast is for entertainment and informational purposes only and nothing contained in this podcast should be construed as legal advice. The views expressed in this podcast may not be those of the host or Tollner Law Offices. We are not responsible for any losses, damages, or liabilities that may arise from the use of this podcast. This podcast is not intended to replace legal advice.   Watch more episodes of Special Education Essentials: For Parents & Families:  * https://specialeducationcounsel.com  * https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCdlPs4LOlySNZkoCB2G6bJA Connect and learn more from your host, David Tollner:  * Website: https://specialeducationcounsel.com  * Email: dtollner@tollnerlawoffices.com  * LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-tollner-162b657b

    IEP 101: 10 Essential Rules for Meaningful Progress (Part 1)
  • 12 Episodes

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About

Welcome to the Special Education Essentials for Parents and Families podcast. Your host is attorney David Tollner. Special Education Essentials was created to impart knowledge and understanding for families with children who have learning disabilities, such as Autism, ADHD, Dyslexia, Anxiety/Depression, Vision and Hearing Impairment, etc. Guests of the podcast will be professionals in the special education and disability services industry who support children with special needs.

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