A Peaceful Path is a podcast focused on special education legal advocacy for families with children that have special needs. The show aims to provide valuable information and resources to help parents navigate the complex world of special education rights and services.
From School to Adulthood: Navigating Transition Plans and Life After High School
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 independence, career readiness, and life skills. Michelle also highlights community resources like Workability, the Department of Rehabilitation, and Regional Centers that can support students beyond the school system.
3 Dec 2025
When Behavior Becomes a Barrier: Understanding Discipline, Suspension, and Behavior Intervention Plans
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 manifestation determination meetings and functional behavior assessments (FBAs), offering insight into how these tools help schools and parents better support students with behavioral challenges.
5 Nov 2025
Special Education and Mental Health: Navigating Emotional Disturbance (ED) Eligibility
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 legal and educational rights of parents when schools fail to provide appropriate services.
Michelle also highlights the critical difference between private counseling and educationally related mental health services (ERMHS) provided through schools, emphasizing how parents can advocate effectively to ensure their child receives the support they need.
8 Oct 2025
Understanding Extended School Year (ESY) Services
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, recoupment, and the legal steps parents can take when ESY is improperly withheld.
This conversation equips parents with the knowledge to ensure their children receive the services they need beyond the regular school year.
10 Sept 2025
The Role of Assessments: What to Ask For and What to Expect
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 (IEP).
Michelle provides clear guidance on timelines, the importance of comprehensive testing, and how parents can advocate for accurate evaluations that reflect their child’s real needs. She also highlights strategies for interpreting assessment data, identifying gaps, and pursuing an Independent Educational Evaluation (IEE) when necessary.
This episode is a must-listen for parents navigating the special education system who want to understand how to secure the right support for their child’s educational success.
5 Aug 2025
When the School Says No: How to Appeal Denied Services
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 reading, attention, or other academic challenges, Michelle provides a practical roadmap for navigating the system with confidence and clarity.
18 Jun 2025
From Referral to Services: Breaking Down the IEP Process Step-by-Step
Attorney Michelle Becker elucidates the IEP process, clarifying eligibility, team roles, goal creation, and placement choices, while host Kevin Rosenquist highlights parental involvement and legal considerations in special education advocacy in this interview.
4 Jun 2025
Is It Time for a 504 Plan? Early Signs and How to Start the Process
Special education attorney Michelle Becker explains Section 504 plans, eligibility, and implementation, while host Kevin Rosenquist explores how these plans support students with disabilities, offering practical accommodation examples in this interview.
21 May 2025
It's More Than Just Talking to the Teacher: Understanding the Realities of Special Ed Support
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 interpretation can make a difference in a child’s education journey.
7 May 2025
From Purpose to Practice: Michelle Becker’s Journey into Special Education Law
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 education legal process and advocates for better awareness of special education legal rights.
Podcast Authority Score: 14 / 100
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