Week 0 - What this is

IPUL is doing something new in 2022!

#QuestionsWithYouIn2022

Idaho Parents Unlimited
Engage + Educate + Bridge + Lead

Questions With You

Weekly questions posted on Mondays with an answer/clarification provided on Fridays. Have some fun learning and sharing in 2022!
#QuestionsWithYouIn2022

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Week 17 - What are the key differences between an IEP and a 504 Plan?

 

What are the key differences between an IEP and a 504 Plan?

 

IEP:

Cost to parents
Free

Eligibility 
Formal process- Student has to meet "Three Prongs" to be considered eligible. 

Services Provided
Specially designed instruction to meet the unique needs of a student with a disability. This includes supports and services in both the general education classroom and the special education classroom.

Protections
The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA)

Individuals Involved in the Planning Process
Required IEP Team Members:
Parent (or adult student), General Education Teacher, Special Education Teacher and a District Representative and/or Administrator

Dispute Resolution 
Parents and districts have access to Dispute Resolution through the state department of Education

504 Plan:

Cost to parents
Free

Eligibility
Each district has their own eligibility determination process. 

Services Provided
Accommodations only. These remove any disability-related barriers to allow the student access to their education. These can be educational and/or behavioral.

Protections
Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973

Individuals Involved in the Planning Process
There are no required team members. A school can implement accommodations without parent consent.

Dispute Resolution
Each district has their own Section 504 dispute resolution process. Parents can also file complaints with the Office for Civil Rights.

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Week 16 - Are charter schools responsible for providing special education and related services?

A16
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For week 16 we asked:
"Are charter schools responsible for providing special education and related services?"

Charter school are public schools. Students with disabilities who attend the charter school have the same rights as students who attend a public school. They are available to all students. They follow the same set of rule and regulations that public schools follow. Idaho law states that charter schools cannot discriminate against any student on any basis. They receive Federal funds, just like public schools do. They typically follow a unique form of curriculum however, they still participate in the state mandated assessments.

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Week 15 - What is compensatory education? (Recovery Services)

A15
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For Week 15 we asked: 

What is compensatory education? 
(Recovery Services)

Additional or supplemental services required to address gaps of service delivery due to school closures when Free Appropriate Public Education was not delivered to a student based on evidence gathered and by IEP team decision.

Recovery Services must be provided outside of the instructional day or year in addition to all other opportunities to which the student is already entitled.

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More Information: (external PDF links)

https://www.sde.idaho.gov/re-opening/files/student-learning/sped/toolkit-outline/Recovery-Service-Decision-Tree.pdf

https://www.sde.idaho.gov/re-opening/files/student-learning/sped/toolkit-outline/Recovery-Services-Quick-Guide.pdf 

 

Week 14 - When it comes to Family Direct Support Services, do you know what expenses are allowable?

A14
Idaho Parents Unlimited
Engage + Educate + Bridge + Lead

For week 14 we asked: 

When it comes to Family Direct Support Services, do you know what expenses are allowable?

Allowable

• Allowable Goods and Services: The guidelines for allowable goods and services and any limitations related to the goods or service that may not be covered are listed below. These examples are intended to broadly describe each category and are not intended to limit purchases to items on this document.
• Personal Support (To help the child maintain health, safety, and basic quality of life ) such as bathroom modifications, Kitchen modifications, and assistance needed with ADLs.
• Emotional Support (To learn and practice behaviors consistent with goals while minimizing interfering behaviors) Assistance in practicing of appropriate expressions of emotions, desires or socially appropriate behaviors. This includes goods such as sensory equipment.

Non-Allowable

• Support Broker cost of business expenses
• State Plan services (e.g., Intervention, Counseling, Medical services)
• Education-related services.
• Recreational and adaptive recreational classes or fees
  
  For a full list with details please refer to the "Guidelines for Allowable and Non-Allowable Expenses":

https://publicdocuments.dhw.idaho.gov/WebLink/DocView.aspx?id=6758&dbid=0&repo=PUBLIC-DOCUMENTS&cr=1

This information was retrieved directly from the Department of Health and Welfares website.

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Week 13 - Developmental Disability Services - what are the differences between the Tradtional and Family Directed Pathways?

For Week 13 we asked: 

There are options when it comes to choosing which Developmental Disabilities pathway works best for your child and family. Do you know what the differences are between the Traditional and Family Directed pathways are?

Traditional

Under this pathway your child can receive services from a Developmental Disability Agency (DDA) or an Independent Provider of your choice. Under this service pathway, you may purchase:

• Respite – This service provides relief time for you to do activities outside or inside the home that you cannot do while you are caring for your child. 
• Community-Based Supports – This service is designed to help your child participate in activities in their community as independently as possible and helps your child to explore their interests and practice things they have learned from other therapies.
• Education –This service offers parents education on topics such as understanding your child’s diagnosis, how to use adaptive equipment, and how to manage things your child has difficulty with.

Your Case Manager will get to know your child, their needs, and the needs you have for them and assist you to develop a plan to meet those needs. They will help you navigate Medicaid systems and obtain and coordinate both Medicaid funded services and non-Medicaid services and supports in your community.

Family Directed

This pathway provides you with more flexibility to choose, design and direct your child’s services to allow for more creative ways to access services. Under this service pathway, you may purchase:

• Community Support Worker Services - You can hire individuals of your choosing to assist your child in the home or community. You can hire an individual, called a Support Broker, who will write your child’s plan for services or you can write it yourself as a parent.
• Adaptive Equipment – This is equipment for your child. These items must be related to your child’s DD diagnosis and not available through their Medicaid card.
• Other Approved Services – includes music therapy, aqua therapy, hippotherapy, and therapeutic riding. These services require a recommendation and justification and must be provided by an individual qualified to deliver the service.

A Case Manager will help you navigate the process to enroll in Family Directed Services. After Family Directed enrollment is completed, continued Case Management is optional, but not required, to assist with activities that are beyond what the Support Broker is required or negotiated to deliver.

These two pathways are different, however the process to apply is the same. You can then make a decision on what works best for you and your family.

This information was retrieved directly from the Department of Health and Welfare's website.

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Week 12 - What Education Files do you not have access to?

For Week 12 we asked:
"Following up from last week's question about acciessing your child's educational records, do you know if there are any education files you do not have access to?"

Week 12 Answer:

According to the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) and Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA), parents don't have a right to review documents including test instruments, test protocols, question booklets, or interpretive materials, which do not contain personally identifiable information relating to their child.

However, test protocols that include personally identifiable information or are co-mingled with education records may be education records within the meaning of the IDEA and FERPA, and, therefore, parents may have the right to inspect and review them.
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Week 11 - Do you have (and how to get) a current copy of your child's IEP?

For week 11 we asked:

"Heading into the busy IEP season, do you have a current copy of your child's IEP/eligibility?
Come back Friday and we will discuss why having these documents on hand is important and how to request copies if you need replacements."
A11
Idaho Parents Unlimited
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A11 Answer (Part 1):

Knowing your child’s goals and eligibility helps you track progress and make necessary adjustments throughout the year. It also allows you the ability to be a more active participant on their child’s IEP team.  

The Procedural Safeguards protect parents’ rights to inspect and review any education records relating to your child that are collected, maintained or used by your school district under Part B of IDEA. (Access Rights 34cfr§300.613)

In most cases, simply reaching out to your child’s teacher and requesting a copy of their IEP/eligibility is enough. However, sometimes a little more work is required.

 

 

 

 

 

 

A11 Answer (Part 2):

1. Contact your school district.
Ask for the office of the director of special education. Someone at this office can provide you a copy of the laws and procedures that cover which student records schools keep and for how long.

2. Ask the school what you need to do to see your child’s records.
If the school has a request form, fill it out. Ask the school for a copy of the form after you’ve filled it out.

3. Write a letter.
If the district doesn’t have a request form, write a letter requesting access to your child’s records. You can use this sample letter to help you write it.

4. Send the letter.
Send the letter to the school district’s director of special education. You may also copy (“CC”) your child’s principal, the special education teacher, and others involved with your child’s education, such as the school psychologist.

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Week 10 - What is a Center for Independent Living?

Centers for Independent Living are community-based, cross-disability, non-profit organizations that are designed and operated by people with disabilities.

Centers for Independent Living Provide Peer Support, Information, and Referrals, Individual and Systems Advocacy, Independent Living Skills Training, and Transition Services.

Idaho has three regional Centers for Independent Living.

These Centers can be found here:
https://silc.idaho.gov/idaho-centers-for-independent-living/

 

 

 

 

 

Week 9 - Can you be paid to be your child's caregiver?

Questions And Answers With You in 2022 - Week 9 Answer

For week 9 we asked: "Can I be paid to be my child's caregiver?"

The current Public Health Emergency (PHE) has been extended through April 2022.

The Biden administration has promised a 60 day notice to states prior to the expiration of the PHE.

One of the temporary allowances granted In Idaho during the current PHE is that the parent may be the paid caregiver, when providing PCS (personal care services) as employed through a home health agency. A nurse reviewer through the Department of Health and Welfare will work to determine eligibility for these services.

To learn more, contact Regional Medicaid Services (RMS) in your region. https://healthandwelfare.idaho.gov/offices

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Week 8 - Our Favorite Ways To De-stress!

A8
Idaho Parents Unlimited
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Our Favorite Ways to De-stress! 

 

Sarah’s way to destress

My favorite things to do to destress are pausing to enjoy nature, marveling at the beauty and wonder that is all around. I also love to dance and abandon all of my thoughts for a few brief moments while doing so.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Angela’s way to destress

One of the easiest things that I can do to take a little bit of stress out of my life is to go hiking in the foothills of Boise which are right in my backyard. I can hike for a half-hour or four hours or all day if I wanted to. I love to breathe in the fresh air and take in some of the most beautiful views. The other thing that is an instant de-stressor for me is time with my daughter Amber. She's such a joyful human and all it takes is a hug from her or listening to music and singing songs, and all is right in the world!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Melissa’s way to destress

My favorite self care is my DIY music therapy. Mostly rap. The more old school, the better. On days where nothing is going right or the stress is just too much, I sneak away to my car and blast Eminem, Dr. Dre, and Warren G. The 2022 Super Bowl Halftime show was my jam. But it has to be LOUD. Then I scream the lyrics. If you have been next to me at a stoplight, my apologies. It's cathartic. My adrenaline kicks in, my focus is on the rhythm and beat, the noise drowns out my other stress and for a 3-5 minute song. Sometimes it may take a few songs, but this is my tried and true method :)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Amanda’s way to destress

My favorite ways to de-stress are to do absolutely anything outside like fishing, camping, even just going for a hike. My other favorite thing to that helps me de-stress is ink therapy!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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Week 7 - What do you love best about IPUL's Programs? What else would you like to see from us?

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

A7
Idaho Parents Unlimited
Engage + Educate + Bridge + Lead

What do you love best about IPUL's Programs?  
What else would you like to see from us? 

Angela, Executive Director
"I know I'm a bit biased as the executive director but I'll tell you that my favorite things about IPUL are having the opportunity to bridge relationships between schools and parents, helping parents understand the IEP process, and helping to making sense of the entire Medicaid program in Idaho. I love when parents have that sigh of relief when they are finally connected to others who "get it." I love all of the opportunities that we get to partner on advocacy efforts that impact the systems are families our trying to navigate. I love, love, love our arts programming. Our Work of Art employment skill building program produces some of the most beautiful outcomes for youth who are entering adulthood and preparing themselves for this great big world! I've been with IPUL for more than twelve years now but they've been a part of my life since I found them when my daughter was about age two. She's turning 26 this month. IPUL has been life-changing for me in too many ways to count ."

"I love that you guys help where I didn’t even know I needed help! I wish I had this when my daughter was first placed in an IEP. I didn’t understand it and still don’t entirely! She needed so much advocating at the beginning and I wasn’t fully prepared. You are an amazing resource to empower parents! I’m new to you and your programs so I am just looking forward to seeing what all you have!"

"Idaho Parents Unlimited is essential to Idaho and the families they serve. Small, but mighty and it's incredible on how much they accomplish and how many they support. They have personally supported me through the IEP process, how to walk through dispute resolution issues, and just day to day questions that arise when it comes to special education. Highly recommend!"

"Idaho Parents Unlimited has been such a blessing in my families life. Besides being an advocate and knowledgeable, they're also there to listen. Friends and family are wonderful, but sometimes having someone that's passionate for people with disabilities is a wonderful option. Thank you Ipul for being an ear when I needed someone."

"The people within this organization, are so helpful. They are well educated and very kind and understanding."

"This is a great place to get information and resources regarding anything related to disability. Whether it is for you, your child or someone you know."

"I feel like I learn more and more everyday when I see posts from Idaho Parents Unlimited. It’s been an amazing experience learning about the different programs you provide as well as feeling confident that I know what my tools are when it comes to advocating for my daughter, and eventually my son if he needs it in the future."

"Seeing the difference in my roommates daughter after she was enrolled in the different programs you all advocate for was amazing. One minute no one could understand her the next she was a different kid. I hope that others can get the help they need to advocate for the kids in their lives that need too!"

"This is such a helpful conference! I learned so much and made wonderful friends."

"Parent Leadership is life changing!! Anyone who has an opportunity to attend should jump on it. I’m forever grateful for the chance I had to attend years ago."

"Thanks to Parent Leadership, I feel much better equipped to support other families in my community now. Thank you, IPUL!"

We love having the opportunity to support and educate all of our families! - IPUL Staff

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Week 6 - Do You Know What Mental Health Resources are Available in Idaho?

A6
Idaho Parents Unlimited
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Do you or your child struggle with mental health? Do you know what resources are available in Idaho?

Some great resources are:
Idaho Parents Unlimited (https://ipulidaho.org/),
Federation of Families for Children's Mental Health (https://www.idahofederation.org/),
Idaho Parent Network for Children's Mental Health (https://idahoparentnetwork.org/),
National Alliance on Mental Health (https://namiidaho.org/),
PBISWorld.com (https://pbisworld.com),
PBIS.org (https://pbis.org),
SESTA's padlet (https://padlet.com/idahosesta/erp1hvcwy6f6),
YES Website (https://yes.idaho.gov),
Optum Idaho (https://www.optumidaho.com/).

Crisis Numbers:
In case of emergency dial 911
Idaho Suicide Prevention Hotline: (208) 398-4357
National Suicide Lifeline: 1 (800) 273-8255

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Week 5 - New to Idaho? Our most common resources

A5
Idaho Parents Unlimited
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Are you new to Idaho? What has been your biggest challenge in locating resources for your child
with a disability/special health care needs?

Here are some links to some helpful resources:

• If you need help finding help, contact IPUL at 
  https://ipulidaho.org
• Youth Empowerment Services serves youth under 18 who have a serious emotional disturbance: 
  https://yes.idaho.gov
• Education related questions can be answered at the Idaho State Department of Education: 
  https://www.sde.idaho.gov/sped/
• Health related questions? Try The Department of Health and Welfare:
  https://healthandwelfare.idaho.gov/services-programs/medicaid-health/about-medicaid-children
• Looking for Support Groups? Many are listed on our support group page. 
  https://ipulidaho.org/res-par#parent-support-groups

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See less

Week 4 - What are your best advocacy strategies?

A4
Idaho Parents Unlimited
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What are your best advocacy Strategies?

This week we did things a bit differently, answering our question on Facebook Live

Idaho Parents Unlimited

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Click here to be taken to a recording of the Facebook Live where we answered this question!

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Top Row, left to right: Angela Lindig, Melissa Vian
Bottom Row, left to right: Sarah Tueller, Amanda Akers

 

 

 

 

 

 

Week 3 - Can your doctor prescribe an IEP...

 

Idaho Parents Unlimited
Engage + Educate + Bridge + Lead

Q3: Can my doctor write a prescription for an IEP for my child?

A3: In short, the answer is no, a doctor cannot prescribe an IEP. You might be surprised at how often this happens! While a doctor can provide important information about a child's medical diagnosis, the IEP team determines eligibility based on assessments and evaluations included in the eligibility process of which a parent must provide consent to administer. When a doctor writes an actual prescription for educational services, it can create confusion for parents and it can even strain relationships between parents and their child's school. As one person responded to our question, there is a three-prong approach toward eligibility, and a diagnosis alone does not automatically determine eligibility for special education.
To learn more about this, check out the Idaho Special Education Manual https://www.sde.idaho.gov/sped/sped-manual/

Chapter 4 includes all of the information on Evaluation and Eligibility including the three-prong approach:
    Prong 1: The student has a disability according to the established Idaho criteria;
    Prong 2: The student’s condition adversely affects educational performance; and
    Prong 3: The student needs specially designed instruction.
If the answer to any of these is NO, the child may not be found eligible for special education.

They may, however, need accommodations and may be eligible for a 504 plan. We'll discuss that further in another weekly question. You can contact IPUL to learn more as well.

More information available at the following link:
https://www.sde.idaho.gov/.../Quick-Guide-Evaluation.pdf
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Week 2 - Do you know how to find out what is happening in...

 

A2
Idaho Parents Unlimited
Engage + Educate + Bridge + Lead

Do you know how to find out what is happening at the Idaho Legislature?
Thank you for your answers. Your answers are correct, and what a great idea to follow your legislator on social media. That's one great thing about Idaho, our Citizen Legislators make themselves easily available to their constituents.

You can access all of the official information at the Idaho Legislature website: legislature.idaho.gov Here you will be able access the Bill Center, Committees, learn about Public Testimony and so much more.

You can view what is happening in the committees daily through their live streaming site via Idaho Public Television at: https://www.idahoptv.org/shows/idahoinsession/Legislature/

If you're unsure of what bills to follow and how to follow them, visit the Bill Center or subscribe to an organization's newsletter that provides weekly legislative updates. One such newsletter comes from Idaho Voices for Children (click here and scroll to the bottom to subscribe: https://www.idahovoices.org/) They'll be tracking all legislation that impacts children in Idaho.

Another newsletter is through the Idaho Caregiver Alliance. You can subscribe here: https://tinyurl.com/4c8ytnyt

To learn more about how to advocate on a particular issue or how to provide testimony on a bill - In person at the Capitol or not - you can contact Idaho Parents Unlimited. We can assist you personally or you can attend one of our upcoming advocacy workshops to learn more.
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Week 1 - What does IPUL Do?

 

#QuestionsWithYouIn2022 - first Question!

 

A1:

What does Idaho Parents Unlimited (IPUL) Do?

We Are the Families We Serve!

We are parents of children with disabilities and special health care needs ourselves, and we often are navigating the same education and health systems as you all are. 
Technically speaking, Idaho Parents Unlimited is the Statewide Parent Training and Information Center and Family to Family Health Information Center providing resources, supports, workshops, and one to one assistance to families who have children with disabilities throughout the state at no cost to families.
We assist families who have children with disabilities and special health care needs - ages birth to adulthood - with any issue or system you may be touching.
We also have our IPUL Arts programming in which we provide high-quality arts education and instruction to children and youth in classrooms and community centers throughout Idaho via our teaching artists.
We also have a wonderful program that is in partnership with the Idaho Division of Vocational Rehabilitation called "Work of Art" that helps youth with disabilities develop important skills for employment.
Finally, we also work with our professional partners to assist them in working with families as well as on issues that include systems advocacy and policy work that impacts the families we serve.

To learn more, check out our "Now What" Guides on our website: https://ipulidaho.org/files/IPULNowWhatGuide.pdf