Free (Not Favor) Appropriate Public Education (FAPE)
When/Where:
,
Palm Springs Convention Center, Mesquite A
Format
Breakout Session
Strand
Student Support Systems
In the ever-evolving landscape of charter schools, special education teams must balance flexibility with legal compliance.
This session will guide participants through the critical distinctions between delivering a Free Appropriate Public Education (FAPE) and offering services based on staff convenience or parent preference—also known as "favor." Presenters will provide real-world scenarios and best practices for developing legally defensible IEPs that are grounded in data, aligned with student needs, and compliant with both federal and California laws. Topics will include connecting the dots from assessment to service delivery, writing compliant PWNs, navigating comparable services for transfer students, and responding to parent requests while maintaining legal soundness. Whether a charter leader, special education administrator, or teacher, participants will leave with actionable tools to strengthen special education practices and avoid common legal pitfalls.
Presented by
Debbie Cesario
Attorney
Hatch & Cesario
Debbie specializes in the representation of school districts, charter schools, SELPAs and county offices of education in special education and student matters. Her extensive background in special education includes litigation in state and federal courts, and representation in administrative proceedings. She regularly appears on behalf of her clients at IEP meetings, mediations, and due process hearings.
Kelly Prins
Senior Director of Special Education
Sage Oak Charter School
Kelly Prins serves as the the Senior Director of Special Education for Sage Oak Charter Schools, bringing over two decades of experience in special education leadership, and instructional design. With experience in charter school operations and a strong commitment to student-focused educational practices, Kelly has led the development of legally sound, data-driven systems that ensure compliance while prioritizing student success. She has overseen the growth and transformation of special education programs in independent study models, with a focus on building strong administrative teams, coaching staff, and fostering inclusive, legally compliant practices.
When/Where:
,
Palm Springs Convention Center, Mesquite A
Format
Breakout Session
Strand
Student Support Systems
