In this episode of Special Ed Rising: No Parent Left Behind, we dive into what parents need to know about special education heading into 2026. From federal proposals like the Empowering Families in Special Education Act to state-level updates in New Jersey and Connecticut, staying informed has never been more important.

We also explore an unexpected lesson from Marcel the Shell with Shoes On—a tiny, one-eyed shell whose story teaches us about uniqueness, dignity, interdependence, and the importance of seeing potential over difference.

Whether you’re navigating IEP meetings, advocating for accommodations, or just trying to make sense of a system that wasn’t built for your child, this episode is a reminder that access, advocacy, and informed action are the keys to inclusion.

Key Takeaways:

1. IDEA rights remain intact, but implementation depends on proactive, informed parents.
2. Transparency is increasing in some states, but families must still monitor progress and ask questions.
3. Difference is not deficit—uniqueness opens doors, Marcel-style.
4. Advocacy isn’t optional; it’s essential.

Resources Mentioned:

1. Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) – U.S. Department of Education
2. Empowering Families in Special Education Act (proposed) – U.S. Congress
3. New Jersey Department of Education – IEP transparency
4. Connecticut State Department of Education – Parent guides
5. Wrightslaw – Special education law & advocacy
6. COPAA – Family-centered advocacy
7. Marcel the Shell with Shoes On (2021), dir. Dean Fleischer Camp

specialedrising.com

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https://iparent101.com/

If you’re a parent navigating special education, the system is changing fast—and whether those changes help or hurt your child depends largely on how informed and prepared you are. In this episode, we break down the most important trends heading into 2026, based on research, national reporting, and what families are experiencing on the ground.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

1. Rising Demand & Identification: How IDEA eligibility continues to grow, and what that means for assessments and services.
2. Inclusion & Instruction: Why true inclusion goes beyond placement and how social integration and belonging impact outcomes.
3. Technology & Personalized Learning: How AI, adaptive tech, and assistive technology are transforming learning—and what parents need to watch for in IEPs.
4. Early Intervention & Life Skills: Evidence showing early supports improve long-term outcomes, plus the growing focus on independence, job readiness, and daily living skills.
5. Policy, Funding & System Challenges: How ending ESSER funds, Medicaid changes, and the One Big Beautiful Bill impact school services, staffing, and delivery.
6. Well-Being & Teaching Strategies: Trauma-informed instruction, social-emotional learning (SEL), and Universal Design for Learning (UDL) as key strategies for student success.

Why This Matters:

Parents need to advocate early, clearly, and consistently, stay informed about policy changes, and ensure their child’s services are delivered as written in the IEP. Advocacy doesn’t mean knowing everything—it means showing up, asking questions, documenting, and never letting decisions about your child happen without you.

Resources & Links Mentioned in the Episode:

1. Special Ed Rising: specialedrising.com — tips, tools, and parent coaching
2. YouTube Channel: Special Ed Rising YouTube
3. Ray’s Respite Care GoFundMe: [link in show notes] — help bring relief and joy to families
4. Safer Starter iPhone: iparent101.com — advocate for safer technology for kids
5. 52 Love Letters to You by Jyoti Jo Manuel: lovefromjyoti.com — daily reflections for self-compassion

Takeaway:

Your voice matters. Your presence matters. And your child’s future is worth the discomfort of pushing back. Systems don’t protect children—people do.

1. K–12 Dive – Reporting on rising special education enrollment and IDEA eligibility trends.

Show Notes:

As 2025 comes to a close, this episode of Special Ed Rising; No Parent Left Behind takes a hard look at the policies that continue to marginalize disabled children, adults, and their families. From reduced Medicaid funding and overwhelming waitlists for home- and community-based services, to inaccessible housing and restricted employment opportunities, we explore how these choices play out in real lives across the country.

We dig into how exclusion is not just a policy issue—it’s a reflection of our values. What happens when disabled people are seen as “costs” or “burdens,” when immigrant families fear accessing services, or when Black and Brown disabled students face disproportionate discipline?

This episode challenges listeners to ask: where does our fear and prejudice end, and where does our humanity begin? Learn practical ways to take action, advocate for inclusive policies, and support disability-led initiatives.

Special Ed Rising is your guide to turning frustration into advocacy, isolation into community, and silence into action. No parent should navigate this system alone, and no story should be dismissed.

Exclusion is real and measurable.

Policy choices—like cuts to Medicaid, long HCBS waitlists, inaccessible housing, and restricted employment—directly affect whether disabled people can live independently and with dignity.

Discrimination intersects with other identities.

Race, language, class, and immigration status intensify the impact of disability exclusion. Black and Brown students, immigrant families, and low-income households often face compounded barriers.

Inclusion is a value, not a luxury.

When disabled people are framed as “burdens” or “exceptions,” society tolerates inequity. Advocates must challenge these narratives to center dignity, equity, and humanity.

Action starts locally.

Attend IEP meetings, school board sessions, and legislative hearings. Advocate for accessible housing, inclusive education, and equitable employment opportunities. Share your lived experiences—statistics alone aren’t enough.

Change begins with community and persistence.

Exclusion isn’t inevitable. By showing up, speaking out, and supporting disability-led organizations, families, educators, and advocates can transform frustration into collective power.

You are not alone.

Special Ed Rising exists to amplify parent and caregiver voices, break down complex policies, and foster a supportive community where no parent is left behind.

Call to Action:

Show up at IEP meetings, school boards, and legislative hearings. Share your story. Support disability-led organizations. And when inclusion is dismissed as “too expensive,” speak up—because change begins with people who refuse to accept less for their children, their families, and their futures.

specialedrising.com

www.lovefromjyoti.com www.specialyoga.co.uk

https://www.gofundme.com/f/join-rays-respite-care-mission

https://iparent101.com/

• Medicaid & Disability Services: Learn more about how Medicaid supports people with disabilities and recent policy changes. Kaiser Family Foundation
• Accessible Housing: Data on how few housing units are truly accessible for adults with disabilities and the barriers families face. Urban Institute,

In this episode of Special Ed Rising, I talk honestly about what families truly need in order to rise.

Before policies, programs, or solutions, we have to acknowledge the lived experience of families navigating special education every day. Families aren’t just managing paperwork—they’re carrying fear, exhaustion, and the pressure to get it right in a system that often asks too much without offering enough support.

I explore the emotional toll on families, the concept of parent role strain, why burnout is not failure, and how broken follow-through erodes trust. Drawing on research and real-world experience, this episode highlights what actually helps families thrive: clear communication, consistent implementation, meaningful partnership, and access to training, coaching, and community.

In this episode:

• Why parental stress and burnout are predictable—not personal failures
• How jargon and broken follow-through block collaboration
• Why parent voice and partnership improve outcomes
• Practical ways schools and systems can support families

Special Ed Rising supports individuals with disabilities across education, access, and health.

⭐ If you enjoy the show, please rate, review, subscribe, and share.

Resources & Advocacy

• Parent coaching & tools: specialedrising.com
• Support Ray’s Respite Care https://www.gofundme.com/f/join-rays-respite-care-mission
• Join the call for a Safer Starter iPhone: iparent101.com
• Featured book: 52 Love Letters to You by Jyoti Jo Manuel — lovefromjyoti.com

When families are informed, respected, and supported, students thrive. When families rise, systems must follow.

Cheng, A. W. Y., & Lai, C. Y. Y. (2023). Parental stress in families of children with special educational needs: A systematic review. Frontiers in Psychiatry, 14, Article 1223456. https://doi.org/10.3389/fpsyt.2023.1223456

Mooren, M. A. (2025). How parents experience language during IEP meetings: Perceptions of language and collaboration (Doctoral dissertation, Marquette University).

Pennington, S. E., Tang, J. H., Divoll, K., & Correll, P. (2024). A scoping review of parent interactions with teachers and school environments. Education Sciences, 14(3), 294. https://doi.org/10.3390/educsci14030294

The Impact of parental involvement on the educational development of students with autism spectrum disorder. (2025). Children, 12(1), Article 1062. https://doi.org/10.3390/children12011062

The effect of family–educator relationships on special educator well-being. (2025). Education Sciences, 15(9), 1120. https://doi.org/10.3390/educsci15091120

summary

In this enlightening conversation, Mark and Jyoti explore the profound themes of self-love, mindfulness, and the healing power of nature. Jyoti, known as the 'Love Whisperer', shares her journey of embracing imperfection and the importance of pausing to reconnect with oneself. They discuss the significance of listening to our bodies, the impact of love letters, and the transformative power of forgiveness. Throughout the dialogue, they emphasize the necessity of self-care and the role of nature as a healer, encouraging listeners to cultivate a deeper connection with themselves and the world around them.

takeaways

• Self-love is essential for personal growth.
• Nature has a healing power that we often overlook.
• Forgiveness is a choice that leads to love.
• Listening to our bodies can guide us to better health.
• The pause in our busy lives is crucial for mindfulness.
• Embracing imperfection allows for true self-acceptance.
• Practicing self-care is not selfish; it enhances our ability to care for others.
• Love letters can serve as powerful reminders of self-compassion.
• We are all messy human beings, and that's okay.
• Connecting with nature can ground us and bring peace.

titles

• The Love Whisperer's Journey to Self-Discovery
• Embracing Imperfection: A Path to Self-Love

Sound Bites

• "The pause is powerful."
• "Self-care is not selfish."
• "Forgiveness brings love."

Chapters

00:00

Reconnecting with Nature and Self

04:30

The Journey of the Love Whisperer

12:51

Embracing Imperfection and Self-Love

16:26

The Power of Pause and Presence

23:21

Listening to the Body and Energy

30:21

The Importance of Self-Care

34:33

Nature as a Healer

39:53

The Impact of Love Letters

44:41

Forgiveness and Self-Compassion

47:24

Grounding Practices for Everyday Life

specialedrising.com

www.lovefromjyoti.com www.specialyoga.co.uk

https://www.gofundme.com/f/join-rays-respite-care-mission

*Change: Parent checklists can be found in the transcipts not here in notes.

Transition out of high school isn’t just a formality — it’s one of the biggest turning points in your child’s life. Whether your child is only a few years away from graduation or still early in middle school, this episode will be a game-changer for your planning.

In this episode, I dig into what transition planning actually is, why it matters, when it should start, and how to make sure your child doesn’t fall into the dreaded service gap that so many families experience after graduation. We’ll also look at late-start scenarios — because yes, even if your child is a senior, you still have options.

Transition planning is a coordinated, legally required process that helps students with disabilities move from school into adult life — college, employment, vocational training, independent or supported living, and community participation. It starts as early as 14 in many states and must reflect the student’s strengths, needs, interests, and goals. Student voice is essential, and schools should support them in identifying what they want for their future. Strong transition planning includes academic alignment, continued related services, community experiences, employment preparation, independent living skills, and early connections to adult-service agencies like OPWDD or VR. Families should watch for red flags such as late planning, no action behind goals, or missing adult-service involvement — these gaps can cause major delays later.

Parents can take meaningful steps whether their child is 14 or already a senior. For younger students, review IEP transition goals, explore community opportunities, and connect early with state agencies. For seniors starting late, request an urgent IEP meeting, add measurable goals, complete transition assessments, apply immediately to adult services, and consider delaying graduation if needed — accepting a diploma ends IEP rights. Transition isn’t extra — it is the future — and with informed planning and strong school partnerships, young adults can move confidently into the next chapter.

these are the authoritative documents and organizations that the content is based on:

• Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA 2004)
• Section 614(d)(1)(A)(i)(VIII): Transition services requirements
• Section 602(34): Definition of transition services
• U.S. Department of Education – Office of Special Education Programs (OSEP)
• Transition Guide to Postsecondary Education and Employment for Students and Youth With Disabilities (2017)
• Rehabilitation Act of 1973 (as amended by WIOA)
• Requirements for Pre-Employment Transition Services (Pre-ETS)
• State Vocational Rehabilitation (VR) coordination with schools

• National Technical Assistance Center on Transition (NTACT & NTACT:C)
• Evidence-based practices in transition planning
• Transition assessment guidelines
• Center for Parent Information and Resources (CPIR)
• Parent-friendly resources on transition and IEP requirements
• National Parent Center on Transition and Employment (PACER Center)
• Guidance on student involvement, family roles, and planning steps
• Council for Exceptional Children (CEC)
• CEC Standards for Transition Specialists
• Best practices in secondary transition
• state vocational rehabilitation agencies
• VR eligibility, Pre-ETS, and transition timelines

• Test, D. W., et al. (2009). Evidence-Based Secondary Transition Practices for Improving Postschool Outcomes for Students with Disabilities.
• Kohler, P. (1996/2003). Taxonomy for Transition Programming.
• Landmark, L. J., et al....

summary

In this engaging conversation, Lynn Greenberg discusses her journey, along with her son Jonathan, as co-authors of children's books that focus on neurodiversity, particularly ADHD. She shares insights about her son Jonathan's experiences, the importance of advocacy, and the challenges faced by parents and educators in supporting neurodiverse children. The discussion highlights the need for understanding, inclusion, and the celebration of differences in children, as well as the role of literature in fostering these values.

titles

• Navigating Neurodiversity: A Conversation with Lynn Greenberg
• Empowering Children Through Literature

Sound Bites

• "It's his superpower."
• "Why be an ostrich?"
• "Parents are the heroes."

keywords

ADHD, neurodiversity, children's books, education, advocacy, parenting, self-advocacy, inclusion, accessibility, creative cab company

takeaways

• John is pursuing his MFA and hopes to teach.
• The new book addresses ADHD and its challenges.
• Neurodiversity should be celebrated as a strength.
• Understanding differences in children is crucial.
• Teachers need more training to support diverse learners.
• Parents play a vital role in advocating for their children.
• Children should learn to self-advocate as they grow.
• Language used in education can impact perceptions of neurodiversity.
• Inclusion in literature helps all children feel seen.
• Community support is essential for families with neurodiverse children.

https://creativecabcompany.com/

https://specialedrising.com/

https://www.gofundme.com/f/join-rays-respite-care-mission

Chapters

00:00

Technical Difficulties and Personal Updates

02:54

Celebrating Achievements in Children's Literature

05:26

Understanding Neurodiversity: ADHD and Dyslexia

08:10

Capturing Strengths and Challenges in Storytelling

10:50

The Importance of Acceptance and Understanding

13:29

Navigating Education: The Role of Parents and Teachers

16:16

Advocating for Change in Education

19:17

Empowering Children to Self-Advocate

21:53

Empowering Children Through Decision-Making

22:58

Navigating the Challenges of Modern Parenting

24:25

Understanding ADHD in Girls

26:39

The Language of Special Needs

28:33

Accessibility in Children's Literature

31:53

Fostering Conversations Around Learning Differences

34:45

Finding Community and Support

37:26

The Role of Parents as Heroes

38:26

Resources for Parents and Educators

40:57

Creative Expression Through Art

42:06

Exploring New Themes in Children's Books

keywords

technology, parenting, child development, mental health, iOS Grow, neurodiversity, anxiety, impulsivity, behavior modification, digital stimulation

summary

In this conversation, Mark and Dr. Adam Pletter discuss the significant impact of technology on parenting and child development. They explore the challenges parents face in managing their children's technology use, the importance of scaffolding in introducing technology, and the responsibility of tech companies to create safer environments for children. Adam shares insights on the neuroscience behind impulsivity and anxiety in youth, offering strategies for parents to help their children navigate the digital world. The discussion culminates in Adam's grassroots movement called iOS Grow—a health-first iPhone experience designed with families in mind. Think of your child’s first phone like a learner’s permit: features are unlocked over time, not all switched on by default. The idea is to start with safety, not restriction—plus age-based check-ins and even a ‘co-parent mode’ to help two-household families stay consistent and reduce conflict.

What if your child’s first iPhone supported their mental health and development?

iOS Grow is a guided iPhone experience that helps kids grow into technology—not just grow up on it. Grounded in developmental science, it evolves as children mature and as families build trust.

• Developmental Defaults: App access, notifications, and time settings calibrated to a child’s age and stage.
• Digital Milestones: Built-in check-ins at key ages (8, 11, 13) prompt families to review and adjust settings together.
• Healthy Rhythms: Screen time synced with sleep, school, and Apple Health data.
• Co-Parent Mode: Shared limit-setting and visibility across two households—reducing conflict and promoting consistency.
• Flexible Access: Offered as either a dedicated Starter iPhone or a downloadable Grow Mode for hand-me-downs.

Why it matters:

Today, 88 % of U.S. teens own or have access to a smartphone (Pew Research Center, 2023), and most own iPhones. Families are forced to work backward—full access first, restrictions later. iOS Grow flips that script: parents unlock autonomy as kids demonstrate readiness.is resonates with you, please add your voice. It takes 60 seconds to give Apple direct feedback through his campaign at iParent101.com/applefeedback. Now, let’s get started.”

takeaways

• Technology is a significant parenting challenge today.
• Scaffolding technology use is essential for child development.
• Tech companies have a responsibility to create safer environments for children.
• Anxiety is a natural part of human survival and development.
• Children's brains are still developing, impacting their decision-making.
• Parents need to understand the reference points of their children regarding technology.
• Impulse control can be taught and practiced.
• Balance in technology use is a constant adjustment.
• The iOS Grow initiative aims to help parents manage technology use.
• Collaboration between parents and tech companies is crucial for child safety.

titles

• Navigating Parenting in the Digital Age
• The Role of Technology in Child Development

Sound Bites

• "Pressure's on to just be you."
• "Every teenager grew up with YouTube."
• "I'm eager to work with...