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Hot Topics in Special Education Law 2027

February Professional Learning

Tuesday, February 9, 2027 at 9:00 AM (EST) to Wednesday, February 10, 2027 at 12:30 PM (EST)

Event Details

Tuesday Presentation:
Hot Topics in Special Education Law

This session will provide participants with timely updates and practical guidance on emerging “hot topics” in special education law and policy impacting schools across Michigan and beyond. Participants will explore recent legal decisions, regulatory updates, compliance trends, and evolving expectations related to IDEA, Section 504, discipline, evaluations, FAPE, manifestation determinations, parent engagement, and dispute resolution. The session will also examine how current state and federal developments may influence district policies, procedures, and day-to-day decision-making for special education leaders and teams.

Designed to support proactive leadership and risk reduction, this interactive session will encourage discussion around real-world scenarios and common challenges districts are currently facing. Participants will have opportunities to analyze complex situations, ask questions, and consider practical strategies for maintaining compliance while supporting positive student outcomes. Attendees will leave with updated knowledge, increased confidence in navigating difficult situations, and resources to support legally sound special education practices within their districts.

Wednesday Presentations:
Developing Leaders is THE place to solve current problems of practice with other MAASE members. Topics for this informal "Ed Camp" opportunity are brainstormed the day prior. Notes are taken to capture the information and resources shared by fellow MAASE members on the hot topic of the day.  Participants will have the opportunity to select two topics that are the most relevant to their current work, one from 8:30-9:15 am and one from 9:30-10:15 am.

Immediately following the Developing Leaders session is the General Membership Meeting where you will hear state level updates from the Michigan Department of Education Office of Special Education and our lobbyist. You will also hear updates from the MAASE President, Tina Lawson on the Board meetings and current MAASE work.

For More Information:

Caroline Schwartz
Caroline Schwartz
Manager of Events and Community Engagement MAASE (517)618-1559

MAASE offers a variety of ticket types so you can customize your event experience.

All Access Tickets: Allows you to attend Tuesday professional learning, Wednesday Developing Leaders, and Wednesday General Membership Meeting (1 full day, 1 half day)

Member $250 ($320 if registered outside of the Early Bird Window)

Non-Member $295 ($365 if registered outside of the Early Bird Window)


Tuesday Only Tickets: Allows you to attend Tuesday professional learning only (1 full day)

Member $170 ($205 if registered outside of the Early Bird Window) 

Non-Member $215 ($250 if registered outside of the Early Bird Window)


Wednesday Only Tickets: Allows you to attend Wednesday Developing Leaders and Wednesday General Membership Meeting (1 half day)

Member $80 ($115 if registered outside of the Early Bird Window) 

Non-Member $80 ($115 if registered outside of the Early Bird Window)


If you are unable to secure a room at the Crowne Plaza Lansing West, we have secured a secondary room block at a near by establishment. You can find more information and make your reservations here: https://www.hilton.com/en/attend-my-event/lanwegi-maase1-f14f28d3-0e04-44f2-a366-b12c2d2f06e/