Understanding the legal framework that protects students with disabilities is essential for any attorney advising families, educators, or school districts. This CLE program introduces the fundamentals of special education law, focusing on the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973. Participants will explore how these two laws interact, where they differ, and what they require from schools in providing a free appropriate public education (FAPE).

The session will also cover key procedural elements, including referrals, evaluations, eligibility determinations, the least restrictive environment (LRE), and the development of Individualized Education Programs (IEPs). In addition, the program will walk through the dispute resolution process and clarify the critical role families play throughout. The course will conclude with an open discussion on how potential budget cuts to the U.S. Department of Education could influence the future of special education services nationwide.