Special Education Rights and the Individualized Education Program (IEP)
Special Education Rights and the Individualized Education Program (IEP)
Join us for a live webinar
This webinar is part of a monthly series hosted by the Advocacy and Community Engagement (ACE) Team. The series explores a wide range of topics, from tools to support school-aged children with disabilities to resources that help adults navigate employment and public benefits. Each session is guided by direct feedback from community partners, ensuring the webinars address the issues they consider most important.
Disclaimer: The following presentation is meant for education only and does not constitute legal advice nor counsel. Your situation may be unique and require careful attention.
Keep in mind that the information in these slides could become out of date, as the laws and local practices relating to these matters are constantly developing.
Note: We may cancel or reschedule workshops based on enrollment levels. We may adjust dates and times to accommodate participant availability and ensure optimal group dynamics.
When:
Tuesday, August 4, 2026
10:00 AM - 11:30 AM
Pacific Time
This event will also be offered in Spanish on August 6, 2026.
Click here to register for the Spanish event.
About the webinar:
This training provides an introduction to the Individualized Education Program (IEP) and your rights as a parent in the special education process. It covers key terms, legal protections, and how to advocate for your child’s right to a Free and Appropriate Public Education (FAPE) in the Least Restrictive Environment (LRE).
What you’ll learn in this training:
- What is an IEP and how it supports students with disabilities;
- Key terms like FAPE, LRE, and Child Find;
- Overview of eligibility and special education laws;
- The difference between an IEP and a Section 504 Plan;
- How to prepare for and participate in an IEP meeting;
- Understanding goals and objectives in the IEP; and
- How to file a compliance complaint, request mediation, or go through due process if needed.
Presenters:
Daniel Hernandez (he/him/his) is an attorney with the non-profit organization Disability Rights California (DRC), which provides legal assistance to people with disabilities in California. He has been part of the organization since 2022 and is based in San Diego, California. In his role serving people with disabilities across the state, Daniel conducts outreach, develops legal clinics, and engages in direct client services. He is a generalist with legal experience in the following areas: healthcare and related programs; social security; special education; housing; and civil rights.
Mary Rios (she, her ella) is a Senior Specialist at DRC, she has been an advocate for over 25 years. Mary is an individual with a disability her passion is informing and educating people with disabilities about their rights and empowering individuals with disabilities to become self-advocates.