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Order allowing Classroom Observation
As many of you are aware, the need for independent evaluators to observe children being evaluated within the classroom environment is an important component of the evaluation process, but is being increasingly challenged by many school districts. Please find attached an order which we just received in one of our due process cases, requiring that the Chicago Public Schools allow our independent evaluator to observe two classrooms that were being proposed as placement options for the student. This order is based on our argument that the Schaeffer v. Weast Supreme Court decision, which assigned the burden of proof to parents when they initiated requests for due process hearings in special ed cases, was proper, based in part on the parents' ability to get access to independent evaluations and to have equal access to information.
We are very pleased by this decision, and believe it will be of use as a precedent in other cases in Illinois.
Matt Cohen

October 2007 Enews
SCHIP vote update, 2 Supreme Court decisions relating to Special Ed cases
September 2007 ENews
National news on the Mental Health Parity Bill, New Illinois Legislation and various other articles.
Acronyms
Acronyms commonly used in Special Education in Illinois.
Chicago Tribune Article
Chicago Tribune Article, December 15, 2006, quoting Matt Cohen in regards to new State Board approved guidelines for special education.
Chicago Tribune 8.23.2007
Article discussing new post-secondary program called College Living Experience, which is geared to students with learning and emotional disorders. Various quotes from Matt Cohen in the article.
Delegation of Authority Form
This form gives a student or young adult over 18 the right to give consent and /or decision making concerning their education to a parent or authorized representative.
Federal Register
Complete copy of Federal Register Part II, Department of Education, 34 CFR Parts 300 and 301 - Assistance to States for the Education of Children with Disabilities and Preschool Grants for Children with Disabilities;Final Rule. Released Monday, August 14, 2006. (Warning: It is 307 pages long.)
Recent Asperger's Case in Maine
New First Circuit Court of Appeals decision recognizes that non-academic difficulties for child with Asperger’s justify special education eligibility.
Victory in CPS Case
Recent Due Process hearing against CPS on behalf of child misdiagnosed as LD.
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Monahan & Cohen
55 West Monroe
Suite 3700
Chicago, Illinois 60603
Phone: 312-419-0252
Fax: 312-419-7428
Email: contact@monahan-cohen.com
Hours of Operation
Monday - Friday 8:30 am - 5:00 pm
Weekend appointments upon request
PLEASE NOTE:
Effective April 1, 2008, our
NEW ADDRESS is
55 West Monroe St. Suite 3700,
Chicago, IL 60603.
Phone 312-419-0252
Copyright © 2006 Monahan & Cohen
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