advocacyfortheuniq

Introduction Many families believe that Individualized Education Program (IEP) meetings happen only once a year. In practice, this assumption often leads to long delays, such as months of lost services while a student struggles academically, emotionally, or behaviorally. What schools rarely make clear is this: “You have the right to request an IEP meeting at any time.” This right is not a courtesy, a favor, or a matter of scheduling convenience. It is a legal protection embedded in federal...

Hawaii maintains a unique, statewide public education system, administering all K–12 public schools through a single district. This centralized structure influences the delivery of special education across the islands, presenting opportunities for consistent policy implementation as well as challenges related to geography, staffing, and access. Guided by federal law and state regulations, Hawaii has expanded inclusive practices, early intervention, and family engagement, while continuing to...

South Carolina continues to make steady progress in advancing inclusive education for students with learning differences. Guided by federal mandates and strengthened by state-specific reforms, the state has expanded early intervention services, implemented structured literacy initiatives, and invested in family-centered support. However, persistent funding disparities, uneven district implementation, and shortages of qualified special education professionals remain key challenges. This...