Case Studies for Special Education Law

Dr. Michael Shaffer is the Director of the Educational Specialist and Educational Doctorate Programs in Administration and Supervision at Ball State University. Shaffer teaches School Law, Special Ed Law, Facilities, Central Office Administration, and Advanced Policy and Politics. Shaffer's interest in Special Education Law started with a doctoral course and continued through many years of administrative practice in public education as a principal and assistant superintendent. Along with extensive practice in administration, he has long been a student of special education law and has taught the course in two different universities. While many school law courses (special ed or general school law) are taught through the practice of having students memorize hundreds of court cases, Shaffer practices the habit of telling the stories from being a long-term administrator which inform how the law plays out in real school life and experience.Dr. Linda Dowell has been a dedicated special educator for over twenty years, serving as a teacher, coordinator, school supervisor, and director. She is passionate about universal accessibility and thrives on the opportunity to collaborate with team members and families to support the diverse needs of learners by ensuring high quality, equitable opportunities are available for all. She is currently serving as the Director of Special Services at the MSD of Wayne Township, a large urban district on the west side of Indianapolis, where she oversees all special education and Section 504 programming for 20 schools and programs across the district. Dr. Dowell is an active member of the Indiana Council of Administrators of Special Education (ICASE) and serves as the co-chair of the governmental affairs committee. She has years of experience navigating through challenging cases in the schools she serves and advocating for legislative change impacting the field. Dr. Dowell earned her B.S. in Elementary Education from Butler University, her M.A. in Educational Leadership from the University of Indianapolis, her Director of Exceptional Needs License from Indiana University, and her Doctorate in Educational Administration and Supervision from Ball State University. When not at work, Dr. Dowell takes pride in being a wife to Matt and a mom of two incredible boys. She has a deep love for fitness, strong coffee, and Butler basketball.

• Foreword by Mathew McKinney, Paul McKinney, and Kristin McKinney Preface by Dr. Michael Shaffer Introduction by Dr. Linda Dowell Chapter 1. The Intersection of Eligibility and Least Restrictive Environment by Jeslyn Lewton Chapter 2. Child Find and Nonpublic Schools by Stephen Marositz Chapter 3. Child Find and Placement Determination by LaShaya Williams Chapter 4. Placement Determination in a Special Education Cooperative by Jenny Smithson Chapter 5. Navigating Out-of-District Placement Requests by Jeanne R. Baldwin Chapter 6. Seeing the Big Picture with Reduced Instruction Days and Behavior Plans by Mary Flynn Chapter 7. Discipline and Challenging Behaviors by Erin Novak Chapter 8. Discipline and Due Process by Heather Droz Chapter 9. Discipline, Child Find, and Section 504 by Justin Tobey Chapter 10. Supporting Challenging Behaviors by Suzanne R. Evans Chapter 11. Denying FAPE Due to Behavior by Jon Clark Chapter 12. Least Restrictive Environment with Challenging Behaviors by Hannah Harrison Chapter 13. Transitions from Residential Facilities by Elizabeth Sipe Chapter 14. Placement Determination with Challenging Behaviors by Kelly Blakely Chapter 15. Challenging Behaviors and Mental Health by Emily Behnke Chapter 16. Collaboration with Parents Amidst Mental Health Needs by Beth Anderson Chapter 17. Collaboration with Parents to Determine Placement Needs by Carleigh Zielinski Chapter 18. Navigating Placement Determination in the Midst of Challenging Behaviors by Adam Bontreger Chapter 19. Restraint and Seclusion by Andrew J. Smith Chapter 20. FAPE in the Midst of a Pandemic by Saige Bourdon About the Authors Index

"Throughout my career studying and teaching education law, I have emphasized that legal principles only become meaningful when educators can apply them to the complex realities of daily school life. Case Studies for Special Education Law: One Foot in the Real World, the Other Grounded in the Law bridges this critical gap between theory and practice. What distinguishes this volume from traditional legal texts is its authorship. Drs. Shaffer and Dowell have assembled a collection of case studies written by practicing educators—principals, special education directors, teachers, and coordinators—who navigate special education law not from the comfort of an academic office, but from the front lines of America's schools. These are professionals who must translate complex legal mandates into actionable decisions that profoundly impact children's lives. The breadth of topics covered is impressive. Each case study illuminates the nuanced application of IDEA, Section 504, and relevant case law while revealing the human dimensions often lost in purely legal analyses. As one who has dedicated decades to understanding education law, I recognize that memorizing court decisions means little if educators cannot apply legal principles to real situations. This book honors that truth. The cases presented here—involving students with autism, emotional disabilities, hearing impairments, and intellectual disabilities—demonstrate how law intersects with ethics, compassion, and professional judgment. The IRAC format (Issue, Rule, Analysis, Conclusion) provides intellectual rigor, while the reflection questions promote critical thinking essential for developing wise educational leaders. This text serves both as an invaluable resource for graduate preparation programs and as essential professional development for practicing administrators. Case Studies for Special Education Law represents exactly what our field needs: legal knowledge firmly rooted in educational reality." - Dr. M. David Alexander, Co-author, American Public School Law"Although the book title says, 'one foot in the real world' it is actually about 'two feet in the real world' within the firm embrace of special education law. What is refreshing about these case studies is that the authors have lived their experiences. Their prose is permeated with them and their commitment to the students they taught remains vibrant. Their stories resonate from these pages played with the law as a special kind of music from a cherished stringed instrument. Prepare to be informed, delighted and energized by educators who have 'been there' and are still inspired by their work." - Dr. Fenwick English, Associate Dean and Professor at Florida Gulf Coast University"Case Studies for Special Education Law is a timely book that can promote positive change in our schools. Educators benefit from wrestling with the practical application of these important laws to prevent discrimination, to foster inclusive learning environments, and to truly strive to meet ALL students' needs. The case study format adds power to the book as readers can discuss authentic situations and take a deep dive into applying their knowledge and values in thoughtful collaborative decision-making processes." - Dr. Marilynn Quick, Professor Emeritus, Department of Educational Leadership, Ball State University"Case Studies for Special Education Law is a must-read for educators and leaders seeking practical guidance grounded in real-world decision making. The book bridges legal principles and daily practice in a way that is accessible, relevant, and immediately useful. I began my career as a middle and high school choral director in public and charter schools. I quickly moved into school and district leadership roles, including serving as a founding principal and later as a district special education administrator. Having encountered many similar situations throughout my career, this book would have been an invaluable resource. I highly recommend it for anyone committed to building expertise that supports equitable, legally sound decisions in the best interest of students. Case Studies for Special Education Law offers a thoughtful and well-balanced examination of the intersection between legal expectations and real-world experiences. Its clear organization and thorough scenario-based descriptions enhance understanding, while the respectful tone underscores the seriousness of the subject matter. The topics presented are both realistic and relatable, with educational information seamlessly embedded throughout." - Todd Hawks, Assistant Director of Special Services, MSD of Wayne Township, President, Indiana Council for Exceptional Children"The structure effectively supports the book's dual purpose, ultimately centered on education. Notably, the discussion questions serve as excellent prompts that encourage deeper reflection and expanded critical thinking." - Mrs. Tammy Hurm, Assistant Director of Special Education at Exceptional Children's Co-op - Dubois, Spencer, Perry & Pike Counties. Co-Chair of the Governmental Affairs Committee for the Indiana Council of Administrators of Special Education (ICASE)