In this powerful episode of Special Education Boss®, Karen Mayer Cunningham is joined by Dr. Mitchell Yell—renowned special education expert, author, and hearing officer—to unpack the heart of what makes an IEP truly effective.

Together, they dive into:

• The definition of Specially Designed Instruction (SDI)
• Why software and canned goals aren't enough
• How to craft measurable, meaningful IEP goals
• The critical difference between procedural and substantive violations
• What happens when schools fail to monitor student progress
• How parents and advocates can hold schools accountable without escalating unnecessarily

Dr. Yell shares practical advice for school-based staff, advocates, and parents alike, plus reveals key insights about the Supreme Court case A.C. v. Osseo Area Schools and why it matters to special education nationwide.

✨ Whether you're a parent, advocate, teacher, or admin, this conversation will leave you better equipped—and more empowered—to support students with disabilities.

📚 Links and Resources Mentioned:

• Progress Center: https://promotingprogress.org/
• Intervention Central: https://www.interventioncentral.org/
• National Center on Intensive Intervention: https://intensiveintervention.org/
• Oyez (to listen to SCOTUS oral arguments): https://www.oyez.org/
• SCOTUS Blog: https://www.scotusblog.com/

✨ 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.

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📬 Have a question? Email us at [email protected]

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• TikTok & Instagram: @specialeducationboss
• YouTube: Special Education Academy

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