In Kansas, special education is delivered through a stand-alone district, a special education cooperative, or an interlocal. However, the building principal serves as the Local Education Agency (LEA) representative, and the ultimate responsibility for day to day services is yours.  You have an active and crucial role in the determination and delivery of special education services within the building. This includes legal requirements, decision making, dispute resolution, implementation, and accountability. As a principal, you are responsible for developing an integrated system of supports for your building. This requires leadership and vision beyond attendance at IEP meetings. Leaders must be familiar with the IEP process to provide guidance to IEP teams. 

Participants will utilize sample IEPs to apply new learning, and to develop systems of communication, implementation fidelity and accountability documentation. Participants are encouraged to invite special education and support staff members who are involved in decision making and leading special education programs in their buildings. Team sizes of 2-4 members will be able to acquire and apply content within the timeframe of the session. Team members should be individuals whose practice impacts the entire special education program in your building.  Knowledge of special education requirements is important, but also consider those who influence the culture and are responsible for action planning, and implementation.

Principals who are assigned to K-12 buildings may want to attend both sessions, as they will be tailored to issues at different levels.