Although some legal conflict in unavoidable, the development of relationships between parents and schools that are based upon clear communication and mutual trust can greatly minimize the contentiousness that often breeds litigiousness, In this session, nationally-recognized speaker and special education attorney Erin D. Gilsbach, Esq., will use caselaw examples, as well as experiences from her own 15+ years of practice as a special education attorney where FAPE-related conflicts resulted from a clear breakdown in communication between the school and the parents. Through a discussion of instances where litigation was sparked by miscommunication, too little communication, uncoordinated communication, and other detrimental communication practices, Erin will offer meaningful, practical tips and tools for schools to proactively work to minimize litigation though the facilitation of better relationships and the break-down of common communication barriers.

From swim teams to middle school musicals and everything in between, public schools offer wide varieties of extracurricular activities and field trip opportunities, but what are their legal obligations regarding accommodating students with disabilities at these events/trips, and are today's schools really doing enough? In this session, Erin D. Gilsbach, Esq., a school attorney who provides professional development to educators, school leaders, and school attorneys nationwide, provides an in-depth analysis of this issue. Using recent cases from across the nation to provide an expansive study of the topic, Atty. Gilsbach answers some of the most prominent and sometimes puzzling questions: Can/should schools provide different accommodations for events/trips than what they provide for a student during the school day? When do schools need to have a nurse present? Who is authorized to administer medication? Can school nurses practice nursing across state lines? Can volunteers with nursing licenses pride nursing functions? Can schools require parents to of disabilities to attend such trips/events? What happens when a school and a students physician disagree about the student's ability to participate in a particular activity? What obligations do schools have to implement Section 504 plans at sporadic/irregular events like dances, concerts, and sporting events? In a lively and interactive session that is as fun as it is informative, Atty. Gilsbach answers these questions and more using advanced visual technology, helpful charts and infographics, and invaluable written reference materials.

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