2024 Hot Legal Topics for Teachers

Hot Topics:  Legal Series for Teachers:  

Crafting Success for Every Student: Practical Applications of IEP Essentials.

One fee for FOUR sessions!

Based on Arizona teacher survey data, AZCEC is offering an affordable 4 part legal series for teachers this school year. The legal series will cover case law, hot topics, guidance from OSEP, and best practices. All learning will be provided by the Law Office of Lorie A Gerkey, PLLC. dba EX-SELS

Lorie A. Gerkey, has over thirty years of experience in the field of special education beginning as a teacher for students with disabilities, then a district-level student services administrator for small, medium, and large school districts in Arizona.   As an attorney, Lorie focuses on supporting school districts and charter schools in the areas of special education and disability law. 

Dates: Tuesdays 9/17/24, 12/10/24, 3/4/25, 5/13/25**

Time: 4:30pm -- 5:45 pm: 60 minutes of training, 15 minutes for Q & A

Where: In the convenience of your classroom, office, or home

Cost: $40 Total for all 4 sessions!

**All sessions will be recorded, no matter when you sign up or which sessions you can attend, you will have access to all 4 recorded sessions.

9/17/24 Session 1: Crafting Success for Every Student: Practical Applications of Evaluations.

This session focuses on the essential processes and practices involved in evaluating students for special education services under the IDEA. Through interactive activities, case law, and legal guidance, educators will learn the importance of a comprehensive evaluation, including the review of existing evaluation data, how to consider Independent Educational Evaluations (IEEs), and how a comprehensive evaluation will provide support for the development of the IEP.

12/10/24 Session 2: Crafting Success for Every Student: Practical Applications of Present Levels of Academic Achievement and Functional Performance.

This session will delve into the critical component of the IEP known as Present Levels of Academic
Achievement and Functional Performance (PLAAFP). Through analysis of case law, real-life examples,
and practical strategies, educators will learn how to craft a well written PLAAFP, accurately document
students' current performance levels, use this information to set meaningful goals, and tailor instructional
strategies to meet each student's unique needs.

3/4/25 Session 3: Crafting Success for Every Student: Practical Applications of Measurable Goals and Specially Designed Instruction.

This session focuses on the essential elements of creating measurable goals and delivering specially designed instruction (SDI) tailored to meet the unique needs of each student. Through interactive activities, practical examples, and legal guidance, educators will learn how to set precise, achievable goals and design instructional strategies that foster student success in both academic and functional areas.

5/13/25 Session 4: Crafting Success for Every Student: Practical Applications of Measuring Progress

This session is designed to equip educators with the knowledge and skills to effectively measure and monitor student progress towards IEP goals. Through case law examples and practical strategies, participants will understand the importance of collecting and analyzing data to effectively monitor and adjust instructional strategies to ensure continuous student growth and success.