PRESENTING SUPERB RESEARCH THAT ADVANCES THE FIELD OF EDUCATION
Case Studies for Special Education Law
One Foot in the Real World, the Other Grounded in the Law
- Publisher
Myers Education Press - ISBN 9781975508777
- Language English
- Pages 225 pp.
- Size 6" x 9"
- Request Exam Copy
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- Publisher
Myers Education Press - ISBN 9781975508791
- Language English
- Pages 225 pp.
- Size 6" x 9"
- Request E-Exam Copy
Let's face it: studying Special Education Law is difficult and can be quite tedious. If it were not a part of the requirements for most advanced administrative degrees in education, many students would prefer to skip the course. However, skipping the study of Special Education Law would be quite detrimental to the anticipated and actual experience not only of principals, but also of many other central office administrators, and especially Superintendents. Mistakes in Special Education Law not only lead to shortchanging students and failing to meet their needs, but the same mistakes can be quite costly to school districts in lawsuits, sanctions, and personnel issues. Case Studies for Special Education Law: One Foot in the Real World, the Other Grounded in the Law gives actual case studies that discuss the issues in special education today. It is a great resource and textbook addition for university courses, and would be outstanding for school district personnel to use for professional development.
For each case study, the book follows the Issue, Rule, Application, and Conclusion (IRAC) format:
- Clearly identify the ISSUE associated with the case. What did the school do? What are the parents alleging? What are the parents asking for?
- Determine the relevant RULE: what part of special education law most impacts this case? Who else is involved in the case? Is it clear cut for either side?
- ANALYSIS or APPLICATION: as an outside observer, what did the school do right? Do the parents have an actionable case? Did it go to hearing? Was due process involved? Were advocates involved?
- CONCLUSION: was a settlement arrived at through mediation? If not, what was the next step? Did the parents hire an attorney? What lessons were learned? How can this be applied to administrative practice?
Perfect for courses such as: Special Education Law; School Law; Introduction to Special Education; Introduction to Emotional and Behavioral Disorders; Introduction to Students with Intense Intervention Needs; Special Education Administration; Theory and Practice in Early Childhood Special Education; Advanced Studies in Emotional and Behavioral Disorders
“Throughout my career studying and teaching education law, I have emphasized that legal principles only become meaningful when educators can apply them to the complex realities of daily school life. Case Studies for Special Education Law: One Foot in the Real World, the Other Grounded in the Law bridges this critical gap between theory and practice.
Dr. M. David Alexander, Co-author, American Public School Law
What distinguishes this volume from traditional legal texts is its authorship. Drs. Shaffer and Dowell have assembled a collection of case studies written by practicing educators—principals, special education directors, teachers, and coordinators—who navigate special education law not from the comfort of an academic office, but from the front lines of America’s schools. These are professionals who must translate complex legal mandates into actionable decisions that profoundly impact children’s lives.
The breadth of topics covered is impressive. Each case study illuminates the nuanced application of IDEA, Section 504, and relevant case law while revealing the human dimensions often lost in purely legal analyses.
As one who has dedicated decades to understanding education law, I recognize that memorizing court decisions means little if educators cannot apply legal principles to real situations. This book honors that truth. The cases presented here—involving students with autism, emotional disabilities, hearing impairments, and intellectual disabilities—demonstrate how law intersects with ethics, compassion, and professional judgment.
The IRAC format (Issue, Rule, Analysis, Conclusion) provides intellectual rigor, while the reflection questions promote critical thinking essential for developing wise educational leaders. This text serves both as an invaluable resource for graduate preparation programs and as essential professional development for practicing administrators.
Case Studies for Special Education Law represents exactly what our field needs: legal knowledge firmly rooted in educational reality.”
“Although the book title says, 'one foot in the real world' it is actually about 'two feet in the real world' within the firm embrace of special education law. What is refreshing about these case studies is that the authors have lived their experiences. Their prose is permeated with them and their commitment to the students they taught remains vibrant. Their stories resonate from these pages played with the law as a special kind of music from a cherished stringed instrument. Prepare to be informed, delighted and energized by educators who have 'been there' and are still inspired by their work.”
Dr. Fenwick English, Associate Dean and Professor at Florida Gulf Coast University
“Case Studies for Special Education Law is a timely book that can promote positive change in our schools. Educators benefit from wrestling with the practical application of these important laws to prevent discrimination, to foster inclusive learning environments, and to truly strive to meet ALL students’ needs. The case study format adds power to the book as readers can discuss authentic situations and take a deep dive into applying their knowledge and values in thoughtful collaborative decision-making processes.”
Dr. Marilynn Quick, Professor Emeritus, Department of Educational Leadership, Ball State University
“Case Studies for Special Education Law is a must-read for educators and leaders seeking practical guidance grounded in real-world decision making. The book bridges legal principles and daily practice in a way that is accessible, relevant, and immediately useful. I began my career as a middle and high school choral director in public and charter schools. I quickly moved into school and district leadership roles, including serving as a founding principal and later as a district special education administrator. Having encountered many similar situations throughout my career, this book would have been an invaluable resource. I highly recommend it for anyone committed to building expertise that supports equitable, legally sound decisions in the best interest of students.
Todd Hawks, Assistant Director of Special Services, MSD of Wayne Township, President, Indiana Council for Exceptional Children
Case Studies for Special Education Law offers a thoughtful and well-balanced examination of the intersection between legal expectations and real-world experiences. Its clear organization and thorough scenario-based descriptions enhance understanding, while the respectful tone underscores the seriousness of the subject matter. The topics presented are both realistic and relatable, with educational information seamlessly embedded throughout.”
“The structure effectively supports the book’s dual purpose, ultimately centered on education. Notably, the discussion questions serve as excellent prompts that encourage deeper reflection and expanded critical thinking.”
Mrs. Tammy Hurm, Assistant Director of Special Education at Exceptional Children’s Co-op - Dubois, Spencer, Perry & Pike Counties. Co-Chair of the Governmental Affairs Committee for the Indiana Council of Administrators of Special Education (ICASE)
Foreword by Mathew McKinney, Paul McKinney, and Kristin McKinney
Preface by Dr. Michael Shaffer
Introduction by Dr. Linda Dowell
Chapter 1. The Intersection of Eligibility and Least Restrictive Environment
by Jeslyn Lewton
Chapter 2. Child Find and Nonpublic Schools
by Stephen Marositz
Chapter 3. Child Find and Placement Determination
by LaShaya Williams
Chapter 4. Placement Determination in a Special Education Cooperative
by Jenny Smithson
Chapter 5. Navigating Out-of-District Placement Requests
by Jeanne R. Baldwin
Chapter 6. Seeing the Big Picture with Reduced Instruction Days and Behavior Plans
by Mary Flynn
Chapter 7. Discipline and Challenging Behaviors
by Erin Novak
Chapter 8. Discipline and Due Process
by Heather Droz
Chapter 9. Discipline, Child Find, and Section 504
by Justin Tobey
Chapter 10. Supporting Challenging Behaviors
by Suzanne R. Evans
Chapter 11. Denying FAPE Due to Behavior
by Jon Clark
Chapter 12. Least Restrictive Environment with Challenging Behaviors
by Hannah Harrison
Chapter 13. Transitions from Residential Facilities
by Elizabeth Sipe
Chapter 14. Placement Determination with Challenging Behaviors
by Kelly Blakely
Chapter 15. Challenging Behaviors and Mental Health
by Emily Behnke
Chapter 16. Collaboration with Parents Amidst Mental Health Needs
by Beth Anderson
Chapter 17. Collaboration with Parents to Determine Placement Needs
by Carleigh Zielinski
Chapter 18. Navigating Placement Determination in the Midst of Challenging Behaviors
by Adam Bontreger
Chapter 19. Restraint and Seclusion
by Andrew J. Smith
Chapter 20. FAPE in the Midst of a Pandemic
by Saige Bourdon
About the Authors
Index
NOTE: Table of Contents subject to change up until publication date.
Michael B. Shaffer
Dr. Michael Shaffer is the Director of the Educational Specialist and Educational Doctorate Programs in Administration and Supervision at Ball State University. Shaffer teaches School Law, Special Ed Law, Facilities, Central Office Administration, and Advanced Policy and Politics. Shaffer's interest in Special Education Law started with a doctoral course and continued through many years of administrative practice in public education as a principal and assistant superintendent. Along with extensive practice in administration, he has long been a student of special education law and has taught the course in two different universities. While many school law courses (special ed or general school law) are taught through the practice of having students memorize hundreds of court cases, Shaffer practices the habit of telling the stories from being a long-term administrator which inform how the law plays out in real school life and experience.
Linda Dowell
Dr. Linda Dowell has been a dedicated special educator for over twenty years, serving as a teacher, coordinator, school supervisor, and director. She is passionate about universal accessibility and thrives on the opportunity to collaborate with team members and families to support the diverse needs of learners by ensuring high quality, equitable opportunities are available for all. She is currently serving as the Director of Special Services at the MSD of Wayne Township, a large urban district on the west side of Indianapolis, where she oversees all special education and Section 504 programming for 20 schools and programs across the district. Dr. Dowell is an active member of the Indiana Council of Administrators of Special Education (ICASE) and serves as the co-chair of the governmental affairs committee. She has years of experience navigating through challenging cases in the schools she serves and advocating for legislative change impacting the field. Dr. Dowell earned her B.S. in Elementary Education from Butler University, her M.A. in Educational Leadership from the University of Indianapolis, her Director of Exceptional Needs License from Indiana University, and her Doctorate in Educational Administration and Supervision from Ball State University. When not at work, Dr. Dowell takes pride in being a wife to Matt and a mom of two incredible boys. She has a deep love for fitness, strong coffee, and Butler basketball.