Concurrent Session #2 Speakers
ANNIE MCLAUGHLIN, PHD, BCBA-DV
TOPIC: THE INTERSECTION BETWEEN BEHAVIOR & EXECUTIVE FUNCTIONING: WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW
Executive functioning helps individuals plan, prioritize and organize tasks. Learn practical executive functioning supports that will help decrease challenging behaviors.
ABOUT. Annie McLaughlin is former special education teacher and behavior analyst. She has worked as an IEP advocate in Maryland for the past 11 years, helping families navigate the special education system. Annie provides training to school districts on best practices in special education, with a focus on positive behavioral interventions and supports (PBIS) as well as working with families on their priorities at home.
STEPHANIE KNAPP, CP
TOPIC: LANGUAGE IS MAGICAL; USING SPECIFIC LANGUAGE TO GET WHAT YOU WANT IN AN IEP MEETING
Language is Magical; Using specific language to get what you want in an IEP meeting. Language and approach is everything. Learn how to use language to your advantage while improving your relationship with your child's IEP team.
ABOUT. Stephanie Knapp is a non-attorney advocate and certified paralegal in the state of Maryland. A graduate of William & Mary Law School's Institute of Special Education Advocacy and Boston University's Paralegal Studies program, she is known for being a tenacious advocate who works hard to do what's necessary and what's right, to assist children and their families. After working in private practice for over ten years, Stephanie decided to expand her efforts and open Advocates In Education, LLC. She currently provides advocacy services to families throughout the state of Maryland, and advocate consultative services and parent trainings, nationally. Stephanie strives to give back to her community and is also a contributing member of the Council of Parents Attorneys and Advocates (COPAA), National Association for Professional Special Education Advocates (NAPSEA), the National Association of Legal Assistants (NALA), the National Federation of Paralegal Associations (NFPA), and the Maryland Association of Paralegals (MAP). Stephanie is a veteran advocate whose high degree of knowledge in special education law and history of working with attorneys, manifests in her display of effective negotiation strategies. She is an invaluable asset to any parent trying to get their child what they need in school. Additionally, as the mother of two children with disabilities, Stephanie's personal experiences allow her to connect with families in a way that sets her apart from most. With her hard work, dedication, unique skill set, and experience, she is a highly sought-after advocate
