Public Post: IEPs, ADA, and creating effective workshops

Okay, Public Post time.

So, right now I'm working on putting together resources and questions for Smart ACID next week on the topic of "IEPs: How they work, How they should work, and What needs changed". I even went upstairs to the coffee shop so that the computer wouldn't distract me!

And of course, I'm struck about how we need a workshop for parents and youth about the What and How of IEPs. So, Brainstorm time! Please link anyone you know in the USA (bonus points if it's in PA) who has school aged kids or is a School aged Youth. If you are on my flist and they say you sent them, I shall have crappy fabulous prizes! If you aren't in the USA and want to answer anyways, go ahead just let me know that you aren't from the US. Comments will be screened, anonymous posting allowed.

State:
Are you a parent, a Former Student, or a Current Student (K-12)? Which?
Have you ever had an IEP?
Any other comments about yourself/experience?

Do you know what an IEP is? What about IDEA and ADA?
What do you think the definition of "Reasonable Accomedation" is?
Do you know who should be present at an IEP?
Do you know where to go to get help advocating for yourself or student?
Do you know where to go to file a complaint about non-compliance?
Additional Comments or Suggestions?

If someone were to give a free workshop on IEPs, IDEA, and/or ADA, what would you like to see covered?
What do you think of having seperate workshops for parents and students?
Any Suggestions?


*Note: Vocabulary:
IEP- an Individualized Education Plan (link)
IDEA- Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (link)
ADA- Americans with Disabilities Act (link)

ETA 1: Edited to include former students; Vocabulary; Links