Special education services and anti-discrimination protections for children with disabilities can make a critical positive difference in their lives. Unfortunately, sometimes services are ineffective, protections are not provided, and chances for help are missed. Without sufficient services and protections, some children with disabilities lose out on educational opportunities and experience negative consequences such as physical restraints, seclusion, and police referrals for disability related behaviors.

Navigating the special education and anti-discrimination processes in the state and federal disability laws can be tricky. This presentation will provide an overview of the main principles and steps of these processes, discuss common and complicated issues, review ethical considerations in representing children with disabilities, and show how pro bono attorneys can help students receive a meaningful education.