Parker Poe's Education Team played a leading role at the premier national conference on special education law, which was held in Atlanta this year. The firm was a presenter, on-demand counselor, and sponsor at the Council of Administrators of Special Education (CASE) Academy of Law and Leadership, which brings together school district administrators and attorneys who serve them from across the U.S.
Our team members in attendance included attorneys Ashley Akins, MaryGrace Bell Kittrell, Samantha Lewis, Sheneka Lodenquai, Cullen McDonough, Beth Morris, Reagan Sauls, and Caroline Scalf.
Many of our team members took part in "The Lawyer Is In" initiative, where administrators and other district leaders dropped by our booth to ask questions and get advice. We also presented on the following topics:
Due Process & Other Love Letters: The Top 10 Legal Issues Facing Special Education Administrators
In the conference's keynote presentation, Beth Morris and Reagan Sauls highlighted common scenarios and legal challenges faced by special education administrators in an increasingly contentious landscape. They offered insight on legal compliance and recent case law concerning the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), as well as actionable guidance for navigating difficult legal situations in special education.
The Symbiotic Approach When Partnering With Your Attorney to Handle Legal Cases
MaryGrace Bell Kittrell teamed up with Chief of Student Services for Marietta City Schools Dr. Tris Gilland to explore how school districts and attorneys can work collaboratively, from case initiation through resolution, to manage legal needs efficiently. Attendees gained practical guidance on roles, communication strategies, exposure assessments, settlement decisions, and hearing preparation to build a productive, low‑stress partnership when legal issues arise.
Better Together: Proven Collaboration Between School Districts and Their Legal Team
MaryGrace Bell Kittrell and Dr. Tris Gilland also hosted a district-focused session on how school leaders and legal counsel can collaboratively assess IDEA exposure and make informed, resource-conscious settlement decisions in special education disputes. They walked attendees through analyzing allegations, evaluating harm and potential risk, and responding strategically to common remedies such as compensatory services, private placements, monetary demands, and attorneys' fees.