On the Horizon: SpEd Power Academy
Creating an inclusive world for every child.
The Lab’s SpEd Power Academy is a space to unlock the superhero potential of Special Education in your child's educational odyssey! Navigating the intricate web of federal laws, rules, and regulations can be an overwhelming challenge, but fear not – the SpEd Power Academy is here to unleash your power as a SpEd Parent. Prepare to transform into a fierce, knowledgeable champion and advocate for children with special needs through two electrifying evening workshops.
Led by seasoned parents who have toiled in the special education arena for decades. The SpEd Power Academy is your ticket to mastering the art of advocacy and unleashing the full power of special education for your child's success.
We were able to meet with Jillian Rainingbird, our SpEd parent leader regarding the current state of special education support for students and families and her goals for SpEd Power Academy.
Jillian RainingBird, SpED Power Academy Leader
Q: How would you describe the current state of special education in your community?
A: The general education system in Missouri is broken, with only 17% of third-grade students reading proficiently. Special education faces even more challenges, including a shortage of qualified teachers and low salaries, bringing the system to the brink of collapse.
Q: What specific challenges do parents of children with special needs face?
A: Parents lack knowledge about special education and Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), leading to difficulties in advocating for their children's free and appropriate public education. Transportation issues within the Kansas City public school district further exacerbate challenges for families of special needs students.
Q: Can you provide background on the transportation issues campaign for families of students with special needs?
A: Transportation issues within the Kansas City public school district, affecting both public and charter schools, are causing significant problems. The failure to address these issues results in special education students losing precious instructional time, violating IDEA requirements.
Q: How have recent policy or administrative decisions affected special education students?
A: There is a lack of meaningful and supportive policies to address the challenges faced by special education parents. While there are existing laws at the federal and state levels, the absence of accountability measures leads to the creation of initiatives like the SpEd Academy.
Jillian with her daughter, CJ and Secretary of Education Miguel Cardona to Kansas City during a Community Conversation hosted at the Mattie Rhodes Center.
Q: What advice would you give to parents navigating special education challenges?
A: Parents should join forces with other special education parents, as there is power in numbers. Getting organized and collaborating with others is crucial to addressing issues collectively.
Q: Why should parents attend the SpEd Academy, and what are the goals of this group?
A: Parents, families, educators, and allies interested in supporting children with disabilities should attend the Sped Academy. The goal is to collaborate, share knowledge, and work together to ensure that children with disabilities receive proper education, ultimately preparing them for success in the world. The overarching goal is to prevent other families from experiencing the challenges the speaker's family has faced in navigating special education.
Are you ready to dive deeper into into the world of special education? Join our upcoming SpEd Power Academy workshop on February 8th at 5:30pm CST. Gain valuable insights, connect with experts, and be part of a community dedicated to supporting students with diverse learning needs.
Sign up to reserve your spot and make a difference in the special education journey!
