In this episode of the Stress-Free IEP podcast, host Francis Shefter welcomes Casey Joseph, founder and executive director of Casey’s Special Education Services. What starts as a casual discussion unfolds into a rich, insightful conversation about how comprehensive support for students with special needs can transform lives—and why building a collaborative village is more critical…
By Lateefah S. Williams, Esq. If you’re the parent of a child receiving special education services, you probably know better than anyone else that learning goes far beyond reading, writing, and arithmetic. Helping your child manage emotions, build friendships, and feel confident in themselves is just as important. That’s where Social Emotional Learning (SEL) comes…
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By Lateefah S. Williams, Esq. Something major just happened that can be game changing for families with children who receive special education services. On June 12, 2025, in a unanimous ruling, the U.S. Supreme Court made it easier for students with disabilities to hold schools accountable when their rights are violated. The case? A.J.T. v….
Meet travel trainer Melinda “Mindy” Niland of ECNV, who turns bus routes and metro maps into gateways for freedom. She breaks down what travel training is and why safe, confident travel matters for people with disabilities. Mindy shares ECNV’s hands‑on coaching style—practicing real trips, using clear tools, and cheering every milestone. Hear stories of riders…
Stress-Free IEP® with Frances Shefter, Episode 95 Rethinking Literacy Support: From School Psychologist to Clinic Founder Dr. Steve Truch’s journey began as a school psychologist in the late 1970s. He often saw students with reading difficulties plateau despite years in resource rooms and special accommodations. Frustrated by the lack of meaningful progress, he dove into…
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By Lateefah S. Williams, Esq. Summer break is arriving soon! It is time to unwind, perhaps soak up some sun. For many families, summer is spent relaxing. But, for the parent of a child with a disability or an Individualized Education Program (IEP), summer can also be a great time to get ahead and set…
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By Lateefah S. Williams, Esq. We’ve all seen children who throw massive tantrums, can’t seem to sit down, or make loud outbursts. Even though it’s not as uncommon as some may think, many parents are shamed for having a so-called “unruly child.” There are people who see a child with the aforementioned attributes and assume the child is “acting out”…
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I truly believe in the notion of “inclusionary practices”. For I believe, like so many others, that access to and through the general education classes often presents the best setting for learning. However … I attend meeting and after meeting as an education advocate where I see inclusion appears to be an excuse of not…
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By Lateefah S. Williams, Esq. When people hear the term ”ADHD,” they think of a young boy who can’t sit still, blurting out answers in class, and getting in trouble. But what if I told you that, in a lot of girls, ADHD appears entirely different and therefore easily gets missed. If you’re the parent of a daughter who seems smart…
Read More “She’s Not “Just Distracted:” The Hidden School Struggles of Girls with ADHD” »
By Lateefah S. Williams, Esq. Last week, President Trump signed an executive order aimed at bringing back what he says is “common sense” to school discipline. The purported goal? To restore safety and respect to classrooms. But while the order focuses on race-based disciplinary approaches (in an improper manner, might I add), many education experts and legal commentators are asking: What does it do to students with disabilities? Let’s break it down. …
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