Making Meaningful Progress at School: Understanding Educational Rights for NYC DOE Students
Navigating special education services within the NYC Department of Education can be complex for both families and the professionals supporting them. In this informative webinar, Joshua Rosenthal, PsyD; Ariel Kornblum, PsyD, BCBA, LBA; and Francyne Zeltser, PsyD, will provide parents, case managers, educational consultants, advocates, therapists, and other referral professionals with a practical overview of students’ educational rights, how to evaluate whether placements and services are truly effective, and what meaningful progress should look like under the law.
Attendees will gain insight into how to identify when a student may not be making appropriate progress, what data and documentation families should monitor, and practical strategies to strengthen supports before legal action becomes necessary. Presenters will also discuss Independent Educational Evaluations (IEEs), common indicators of a potential denial of FAPE (Free Appropriate Public Education), and how professionals can help families navigate next steps thoughtfully and effectively.
Learning Objective
- Understand students’ rights under FAPE and what schools are legally required to provide
- Recognize signs that a student may not be making meaningful educational progress
- Identify important records, evaluations, and school-based data that should be reviewed and monitored
- Support families in strengthening IEPs and advocating effectively for appropriate services and placements
- Understand when an IEE or additional evaluation may be warranted
- Gain practical insight into the impartial hearing process and available resources for families
