Today’s episode of The Epic IEP™ is a little longer — but you’re going to want to hear this. Karen Mayer Cunningham, The Special Education Boss®, breaks down a real IEP story that starts with “she’s doing fantastic” and ends with a fourth grader reading 13 words correct per minute and a team refusing resource for five meetings straight.

If you’ve ever sat at the table and wondered why services become the sticking point, this episode gives you clarity. Karen explains why the “why” doesn’t matter — power, control, personality, panic, excuses — none of it changes the team’s obligation to write an IEP that enables progress appropriate in light of the student’s unique circumstances.

Inside this episode, you’ll learn how to:
• Stick to the facts, not feelings or opinions
• Respond when teams say “she’s doing great” while the data says otherwise
• Quantify gaps (like 13 wcpm vs. the 120 wcpm average) so the need is undeniable
• Handle the “we’re worried if she leaves gen ed…” argument
• Challenge myths like “she has to hear state standards”
• Understand why resource is often resisted — and why it’s necessary
• Pivot conversations back to needs, minutes, and services
• Keep the main thing the main thing: the student’s unique circumstances

Karen shares how a student who was overlooked for years finally received resource reading — and how she moved from 13 wcpm to 60 wcpm. Not because she was “sweet” or “quiet”… but because the team looked at the data and addressed the real need.

You’ll also hear how to stay grounded when meetings get frustrating:
• Don’t chase the why — focus on what’s next.
• If you don’t know if something is true, ask for it in writing.
• Use: “Can you send me that code or statute by email by close of business tomorrow?”
• Remember: lovely, well-behaved, or quiet is not the standard. Progress is.

This episode is all about clarity, courage, and keeping your eyes on the data.

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👩‍⚖️ Hosted by Karen Mayer Cunningham, Advocate & Special Education Boss®
Each week, Karen shares real stories, legal insights, and no-nonsense strategies to help you navigate special education with clarity and confidence.

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