In a move aimed at safeguarding student rights and ensuring a supportive learning environment, Governor Ned Lamont and Education Commissioner Charlene Russell-Tucker announced the release of a critical guidance document for all Connecticut K-12 public schools. Issued by the Connecticut State Department of Education (CSDE), this guidance addresses concerns surrounding recent changes in U.S. Department of Homeland Security policies related to immigration enforcement activities and their potential impact on school Continue Reading

If your child has been denied special education services, you still have options. This video explains the process of requesting an Independent Educational Evaluation (IEE), which provides a second opinion from an outside evaluator, funded by public resources. Discover how an IEE allows you to seek an unbiased assessment to determine if your child truly needs specialized instruction, offering an alternative to the school district’s initial evaluation. Learn how an IEE can Continue Reading

Connecticut’s 2025 legislative session has placed special education at the forefront, signaling a pivotal moment for families of children with disabilities. With a focus on increased funding, improved classroom safety, and addressing the shortage of special education professionals, lawmakers aim to create a more equitable and effective education system for all students. Key Legislative Priorities Enhancing Special Education Funding: Connecticut legislators are reevaluating the Education Cost Sharing (ECS) formula to Continue Reading

Navigating the world of special education can be overwhelming for parents of children with disabilities. With legal terms, individual education plans (IEPs), and school district policies to consider, it’s no wonder families feel lost. If you’re in Fairfield County, Connecticut, you’re not alone. This guide will help simplify the basics of special education law and show how you can ensure your child gets the support they need. Attorney Jeffrey Forte Continue Reading

This video explains how parents and school districts can initiate a referral to determine a child’s eligibility for special education services under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA). Learn how to start the evaluation process, whether through parental referral—often supported by reports from developmental pediatricians, speech therapists, or occupational therapists—or a referral from the school district. We walk you through the steps of the initial eligibility evaluation, which assesses if your child requires Continue Reading