New Britain, PA – Christina M. Stephanos, a partner with Sweet, Stevens, Katz & Williams LLP was recently featured as an expert source in an article published by Special Ed Connection. The article, “Don’t Miss a Beat When Conducting Classroom Observations: Review Procedures,” draws on Stephanos’s legal insight to help school districts navigate federal requirements under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA).
In the interview, Stephanos provided practical guidance on who should conduct classroom observations, how to coordinate them effectively with teachers, and what types of student data should be collected to support legally sound eligibility determinations. She emphasized that classroom observations are a critical component of evaluations for students suspected of having specific learning disabilities and highlighted the legal risks districts faced when observations are overlooked or improperly conducted. She also offered recommendations on maintaining discretion during observations and ensuring observers are appropriately vetted and prepared.
Stephanos, who consults and represents school districts in a variety of matters, helps translate complex legal standards into actionable steps for educators and administrators on a day-to-day basis, reinforcing the importance of careful, compliant practices that best serve students’ needs.
Special Ed Connection is published by LRP Publications, an entity that provides coverage of law and compliance issues for administrators, teachers, attorneys, journalists, and others interested in special education law and best practices.