In this episode, Jeremy and Erin break down the legal standards for residential placements under IDEA and Section 504. They analyze lessons from a Washington state case in which the court drew clear lines between therapeutic care and educational need. They offer practical tips for early intervention, being knowledgeable about local options, staying curious and asking questions to gather key information, and avoiding costly disputes when mental health and educational needs collide.

In this episode, Erin and Jeremy dive into a Delaware case involving a student with disabilities who had recently returned from incarceration and was grieving the tragic loss of a sibling. The student challenged the district’s proposed placement, raising questions about how schools evaluate LRE under the IDEA. They break down the legal standards, examine the district’s decision-making process, and provide practical guidance for educators facing complex placement determinations.

A student with autism, a power tool, and a curtain - what could go wrong? When a vocational placement goes wrong, the consequences can be severe. In this episode, Jeremy and Erin explore how failing to update an IEP for a vocational setting led to serious injury and a federal lawsuit. Tune in for expert tips on how schools can stay compliant and keep students safe.

Want more on IDEA, 504, and vocational education? Check out Episode 5 of Season 3 here.