A Peaceful Path

Episode Summary: In this episode, Michelle Becker, a special education attorney, breaks down the transition planning process for students with disabilities as they move from high school into adulthood. She explains when transition planning should start, how to prepare for high school diploma or functional skills pathways, and practical steps parents can take to ensure their child develops independ...

Episode Summary: In this episode of A Peaceful Path, Michelle Becker discusses what parents can do when their child’s behavior begins to interfere with their ability to learn. She explains what typically leads to school suspensions, why parents often feel surprised by disciplinary action, and how special education laws protect children with disabilities. Michelle also covers the importance of mani...

Episode Summary In this episode of A Peaceful Path, special education attorney Michelle Becker explores how mental health challenges, such as anxiety, depression, trauma, and school avoidance, are addressed—or overlooked—within the public school system. She breaks down what emotional disturbance (also called emotional disability) eligibility under IDEA really means, how it is assessed, and the leg...

Episode Summary In this episode of A Peaceful Path, special education attorney Michelle Becker breaks down the complexities of Extended School Year (ESY) services. She explains what ESY is, how it differs from traditional summer school, who qualifies, and how families can advocate for their children when districts deny eligibility. Michelle highlights the importance of understanding regression, re...

Episode Summary In this episode of A Peaceful Path, special education attorney Michelle Becker breaks down one of the most critical elements of the special education process: assessments. She explains how standardized evaluations shape eligibility for services, what parents should know when requesting assessments, and how the results directly influence a child’s Individualized Education Program (I...

Episode Summary: In this empowering episode, special education attorney Michelle Becker breaks down what parents should do when a school denies an IEP, 504 plan, or assessment request. She explains how to recognize the difference between informal school pushback and a formal legal denial, and what steps parents must take to get the “yes” their child deserves. Whether your child is struggling with...

Episode Summary: In this episode of A Peaceful Path, host Kevin Rosenquist and attorney Michelle Becker dive deep into understanding the IEP (Individualized Education Program) process. Michelle explains the comprehensive nature of IEPs, from eligibility criteria and team composition to goal setting and placement decisions. She emphasizes the importance of parent involvement and provides valuable i...

Episode Summary: In this informative episode, host Kevin Rosenquist and special education attorney Michelle Becker dive deep into Section 504 plans, explaining their differences from IEPs, eligibility requirements, and implementation in schools. Michelle provides valuable insights into how these plans support students with disabilities and shares practical examples of effective accommodations.   K...

Episode Summary: In this episode of A Peaceful Path, host Kevin Rosenquist and special education attorney Michelle Becker discuss the realities of special education support and advocacy. Michelle shares insights about common challenges parents face when dealing with school districts, the importance of understanding IEPs (Individual Education Programs), and how proper assessment and data interpreta...

Episode Summary: In this inaugural episode, host Kevin Rosenquist interviews Michelle Becker, a special education attorney who shares her personal journey into special education law. Michelle discusses how adopting twin girls from Romania led her to discover the challenges within the special education system and ultimately inspired her career change. She provides valuable insights into the special...