Source: https://www.californiaspecialedlaw.com/wiki/hearing-decisions/oah-2010020521/
Timestamp: 2019-04-19 10:29:16+00:00

Document:
ANTELOPE VALLEY UNION HIGH SCHOOL DISTRICT.
The due process hearing in this matter was held on April 7, 12, 13, 14 and 15, 2010, in Lancaster, California, before Clifford H. Woosley, Administrative Law Judge (ALJ), Office of Administrative Hearings (OAH), State of California.
Janeen Steel, Asaf Orr, Laurel Tierney, and Ines Kuperschmit, attorneys from the Learning Rights Law Center, appeared on behalf of Student. 1 Student was present on April 7 and 12. Student’s Mother was present throughout the hearing and Student’s Father was present once it was determined he would not be called as a witness.
On February 11, 2010, Parents filed a request for due process hearing. On February 16, 2010, Student turned 18 years of age and became the sole holder of his educational rights. Hearing commenced on April 7 and was continued to April 12. At the close of hearing on April 15, the matter was continued to May 10, 2010, for the submission of closing briefs. On that day, briefs were filed, the record was closed, and the matter was submitted.
1 Counsel from the Learning Rights Law Center appeared at various times during the hearing, usually determined by the witnesses and evidence to be presented on any particular day.
2 Dr. Beam was present when Ms. Williams was unavailable.
3 A resource teacher said that Student was dyslexic but, to Mother’s knowledge, no formal testing was conducted. Student’s dyslexia was reported in his prior IEPs and was thereafter taken as a given by the IEP teams.
4 Though this IEP was held more than two years before the February 11, 2010 due process filing, the IEP is relevant because it was in effect as of February 11, 2008, the beginning of the statute of limitations period. (See 20 USC § 1415, subd(b)(6)B)).
5 The September 2006 AT assessment was not produced at hearing.
6 As the year progressed, Student did not use the AlphaSmart. Mother, Student, and Mr. Cook all referred to Student’s resistance to using the AlphaSmart, for reasons that varied with each witness.
7 A Lexile measure is information about either an individual’s reading ability or the difficulty of a text, like a book or a magazine article. A student gets the Lexile reader measure from a reading test or program. When used together, Lexile measures help a reader find books and articles at an appropriate level of difficulty and determine how well that reader will likely comprehend a text.
8 READ 180 is a reading program designed for students in elementary through high school whose reading achievement is below the proficient level. The goal of READ 180 is to address gaps in students’ skills through the use of a computer program, literature, and direct instruction in reading skills. The software component of the program aims to track and adapt to each student’s progress.
9 The PLOPs also list “auditory processing” disorder, contrary to Mr. Morgan’s Psychoeducational Summary Report. This reference appears to be a typographical error, since the October 2008 IEP’s minutes indicate that the IEP team understood Student’s discrepancy was caused by a visual, not auditory, processing disorder.
10 This benchmark actually read “special education teacher,” but the goal and the class both state “general education teacher,” which is correct for Student’s physical education. The hearing officer will read an IEP as intended if the inadvertent use of the wrong word is obvious from the context.
11 SB-601 is the Senate bill which requires the California Department of Education to conduct physical fitness testing and report the information to the Governor and Legislature. The law has specified exemptions, which the IEP team concluded Student fell within.
12 Since first providing the SpongeBob typing program at the 2007 IEP, Mr. Cook stated he would periodically check with Student, who admitted he was not using the SpongeBob program.
13 This note is written as a prescription.
14 Student and Parents refer to a “razor scooter” that is a narrow, metal, two-wheeled kick scooter, with an extension handle, resembling a small, two-wheeled skateboard with a steering arm. The use of the term “razor scooter” resulted in a misunderstanding which contributed to disagreement between Parents and District.
15 When given to the District, Dr. Lee’s letter was not signed. Mother testified that she recently had Dr. Lee sign the letter.
16 The parties parried over the issue of Student’s strength and stamina throughout the hearing. Witnesses testified about seeing Student on his razor scooter and bicycle, riding to school or far from home. This evidence and argument proved to be of little value in determining the merits of the parties’ contentions, especially in light of Dr. Bernstein’s testimony.
17 In fact, Student testified that he had a job at GameStop because of the DOR’s vocational services.
18 Ms. Levy (and other witnesses) also testified about Student missing a YES class in November 2009 when her aide Ms. Parsons found Student on a landing in the stairwell with another student. Student gave conflicting reasons for his being in the stairwell. Both parties overstated the relevance of this incident and the ALJ discounted its evidentiary significance.
19 Other than Dr. Bernstein, Student did not present any expert testimony. Student did not introduce any independent assessment or evaluation. Student’s contention of a FAPE inadequacy was based on cross-examination of District personnel and exhaustive dissection of the documentary evidence. Without contravening evidence, this ALJ’s factual findings are primarily based upon witnesses’ credibility and appraisal of documents. Argument is seldom a sufficient substitute for evidence. Without affirmative evidence to the contrary, Student’s contentions were more difficult to establish.
h) The District failed to create an appropriate transition plan.
k) The October 8, 2009 annual IEP failed to include adequate present levels of performance.
1. Student is a junior at Eastside High School in the District, who turned 18 years old soon after the filing of this due process request by his Parents. At all relevant times, Student was a resident of the District and eligible for special education under the category of Specific Learning Disability (SLD).
2. Student has Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease (CMT), which is a genetic, degenerative, neuromuscular disorder. CMT affects motor and sensory nerves. A typical feature includes weakness of the foot and lower leg muscles, which may result in foot-drop and a high-stepped gait with frequent tripping or falls. To assist, Student wears braces on each leg for support, from foot to knee. Student is prone to getting cold and physically tired. As CMT progresses, weakness and muscle atrophy may occur in the hands, resulting in difficulty with fine-motor skills. No evidence was presented regarding the extent to which CMT affects Student’s fine-motor skills.
3. Student’s Mother testified at the hearing. Student started elementary school in the Lancaster School District. He struggled academically in kindergarten and was held back a year, to see if his struggles were developmental. The school then tested him in first grade, when he continued to perform significantly behind his peers. Student was found eligible for special education services; Mother was unsure of the actual eligibility criteria. Mother was told he was dyslexic 3 and that Student required services for speech. Student was in a general education (GE) class, with pull-out resource at the end of the day. He had speech therapy for a couple of years.
4. At middle school, he had push-in resource for his GE class. Student had difficulty keeping up with the program. After one-and-one-half years, Student went to another middle school, where he had traditional resource services. Student continued to struggle to keep up and was writing poorly, not close to grade-level. Finally, in eighth grade, Student went into a special day class (SDC).
5. A transition IEP convened January 26, 2007, which stated that Student should continue in the SDC and APE when he transferred to the District’s Eastside High School for ninth grade. A hand-written entry referred to “books on tape” under assistive technology in the transition IEP but there was no evidence Student used books on tapes prior to enrolling in the District.
6. Student’s Spring 2007 California Standardized Testing and Reporting (STAR) tests were far below basic, which raised concerns for Mother, who knew her son was struggling.
7. Student testified at hearing. Student is slow to speak and likable. He confirmed CMT as his physical disability. He described his educational disability as severe dyslexia, but he was unsure when he was diagnosed and who diagnosed him. Student’s testimony is referred to throughout these factual findings. Student’s demeanor was congenial but somewhat detached. Student would often say he was unsure after answering a question. His testimony regarding what, when and to whom he made a particular statement was frequently imprecise. Notably, Student’s testimony exhibited a general attitude that he does not want to “stick out.” Of the reasons given as to why he did not use his AT machines or other mobility devices, the most common was that he did not want to call attention to himself as being different. Though Student said that he actively participated in his IEPs, the IEP documents themselves do not record significant participation by Student, other than his presence. This was confirmed by a number of District personnel who attended Student’s IEP meetings. Generally, his testimony confirmed the concerns expressed in some of his IEP transition goals relative to lack of self-awareness and self-advocacy, which could be interpreted as disinterest.
8. In the summer of 2007, Student attended summer school at Eastside High School in a SDC, which Mother described as an “amazing” class. The campus was small at the time because the classes were in temporary trailers; the District was in the midst of constructing new Eastside facilities. He received 10 credits and a grade of B for two summer classes: Math Seminar and Reading/Writing Seminar.
9. Student’s first IEP meeting at the District was an annual review held on September 24, 2007. 4 The IEP specified assistive technology as one of the meeting’s purposes. Attending were: Student; Mother; Father; Student’s attorney, Warren Finn; District administrator Matthew Anderson; general education teacher, Tizoc Estrada; District nurse, Olga Magana; AT technician, Eddie Cook; special day class (SDC) teacher, Lisa Chapleau; and the District’s general counsel, Bridget L. Cook.
10. The IEP affirmed Student’s eligibility of specific learning disability in basic reading, reading comprehension, and written expression. Student was identified as having a processing disorder in visual and auditory processing, and sensory-motor skills. Mother thought other health impairment (OHI) was a secondary eligibility because of the CMT. The IEP does not include OHI as a secondary eligibility. The IEP documents Student’s summer school attendance, earning 10 credits toward the 230 credits needed to receive a District high school diploma, along with his senior project, Algebra I, and passage of the California High School Exit Examination (CAHSEE).
11. Consistent with the services provided the prior year, the IEP team affirmed Student’s need for SDC instruction, with more than 54% of his school day in special education. Student’s academic classes were in a SDC. Student was also enrolled in a general education guitar class and an adaptive physical education (APE) class.
12. One of the stated purposes of the annual IEP was to review Student’s assistive technology-related services, which were provided as part of Student’s IEP services from the former district. Student required assistive technology devices and services in order to meet goals and objectives and to access the core curriculum per assessment.
14. Mr. Cook stated that Student came to the District with two types of AT: colored overlays to assist with dyslexia (in colors specified by Mother); and an AlphaSmart. Before Student arrived at District, Mr. Cook ordered AlphaSmart. Both AT devices were provided Student when he started the ninth grade. Mr. Cook recalled that the AlphaSmart had no speaker function or word prediction software and he was unaware of its printing capability. Mr. Cook did not know if the overlays assisted Student when using the AlphaSmart’s black and white screen. District personnel generally confirmed that Student was given the colored overlays.
15. Prior to the September 2007 IEP, Mr. Cook did not conduct any additional AT assessments. Instead, he relied on the prior district’s 2006 AT assessment. Student and Parents did not ask for an AT assessment at the September 2007 IEP. Mother testified that Student did not like the AlphaSmart and had difficulty because the screen was too small and the keyboard was difficult for him to use. Mother testified that she told the IEP team that the family wanted to give back the AlphaSmart because Student was not using it. The IEP documents did not contain any reference to Mother’s alleged statements. Student testified he was having difficulties with the AlphaSmart, but he could not recall telling anyone at the September 2007 IEP. Other team members testified that no one from the family told the team that Student had problems with the AlphaSmart. The September 2007 IEP team was not informed of Student’s difficulties with the AlphaSmart.
16. Student testified that he first received the AlphaSmart in eighth grade (Lancaster School District) and that he told his Parents and teacher that he had a problem seeing the screen. He said he tried to use the AlphaSmart in middle school. He did not recall if the teacher or Parents did anything relative to his complaint. After he started high school, he would take his AlphaSmart to classes, but he did not regularly use it. He tried to take some notes, but could not keep up.
17. During the September 2007 IEP meeting, Mr. Cook learned that Student had not received any formal keyboarding training. Eastside High School did not offer a typing class; the school computer class was not a typing class. Therefore, Mr. Cook suggested that Student begin using keyboarding/typing software, called the SpongeBob SquarePants Typing program (SpongeBob). The IEP narrative documents this discussion, indicating that Mr. Cook was going to order the program and install it on a computer in the student support center. Additionally, the IEP stated that the SpongeBob program would be provided to Student to use at home.
18. Mr. Cook gave the SpongeBob program to families and students to help students develop typing skills. Mr. Cook has minimally used the program himself, but thought the SpongeBob program appropriate for the Student. With more sophisticated technology, like the AlphaSmart, Mr. Cook maintained a lending form for the AT equipment. Parents receive a copy of the form because they usually have to sign for the equipment. Mr. Cook did not require a lending form for the SpongeBob program because Mr. Cook furnished the program to students and families to keep.
19. Mr. Cook credibly testified that he gave the SpongeBob program to the family at the September 2007 IEP. Mother does not recall this, stating that she did not receive the SpongeBob program until September or October 2009. Similarly, Student does not recall having the SpongeBob program at home until the fall of 11th grade. Mr. Cook specifically recalls giving the SpongeBob program at the IEP because it was his last copy, which is why the IEP stated that he needed to order the program to install on a computer in the student support center. Mr. Cook stated that the family indicated they had a computer to run the program at home. Mr. Cook testified that he had thereafter checked in with Student about his typing and Student never told him that he did not have the program or a computer upon which to run the program.
20. Mr. Cook did not believe “books on tape” was part of Student’s IEP AT services and does not recall the September 2006 AT assessment referring to “books on tape” as an AT service for Student. Other than the hand-written reference in the January 2007 transfer IEP from Lancaster District to Antelope Valley Union High School District, no testimony, assessment or IEP supports the contention that “books on tape” was part of Student’s IEP AT-related services. Accordingly, “books on tape” was not part of Student’s AT services before or after coming to the District.
22. Mother expressed her concerns to the IEP team about Student’s ability to follow instructions, his reading level and his poor STAR scores, but felt the IEP team did not adequately explain Student’s reading level. She also stated that the only reading goal was in comprehension. She did not believe Student could write an essay. Neither the IEP nor other IEP team members confirmed that Mother stated these concerns at the IEP meeting.
23. Lisa Chapleau was the attending special education teacher and testified at the hearing. Ms. Chapleau is a credentialed special education teacher at Eastside High School and has worked for the District as a special education teacher for 11 years. Ms. Chapleau is Student’s case carrier and is in charge of IEP timely scheduling, with the correct people in attendance. She also ensures that other teachers are aware of modifications and accommodations, along with goals and objectives, which are based on state standards. She attended all of Student’s IEP meetings and acted as the IEP scribe, typing in as much as she could of the team’s discussions. Ms. Chapleau worked with Student on transition issues. Ms. Chapleau was very knowledgeable of Student, the IEPs, the issues discussed at the IEP meetings, and the services provided. Ms. Chapleau was very forthcoming in her testimony, even transparently acknowledging an error in the KTEA II testing. Ms. Chapleau was a very credible witness.
24. At the IEP meeting, Ms. Chapleau stated that Student had met his goals from the previous year’s IEP. Therefore, the IEP team developed new goals in reading, math, writing, and transition with corresponding objectives and benchmarks, after noting Student’s Present Levels of Performance (PLOP) in each area.
25. Ms. Chapleau stated that Student has average cognitive abilities. She reviewed the PLOPs and goals for Student in the September 2007 IEP. For reading comprehension, Student’s PLOP identified a Lexile 7 score of 232, taken as part of the READ 180 test in August 2007. Student was enrolled in the READ 180 class. 8 Ms. Chapleau stated that the reading comprehension Lexile score was Student’s baseline for starting the READ 180 course and indicated a reading level below his current grade level. Lexile scores assist in matching reading materials with Student’s abilities. Ms. Chapleau explained at the hearing that the READ 180 class employs two levels for reading: an instructional level, which matches reading material with the student’s reading level; and an independent level, which provides reading materials above the student’s reading level, thereby increasing reading skills. Student’s baseline score was used to assist in measuring Student’s progress.
26. As implemented at Eastside, the READ 180 program is a two-year program designed to improve a student’s reading skills and comprehension. The computer program component tracks the student’s progress and provides material designed to systematically improve the student’s skills. Students do not progress until the student acquires the necessary skills. A student could not advance to the second year of READ 180 unless the student met the goals and objectives of the first year. Those witnesses who addressed the READ 180 program class stated that the goals and objectives are built into the program’s systematic study structure and are designed to address a student’s unique needs, which the READ 180 program regularly measures and adjusts. Ms. Chapleau said the READ 180 course was discussed and explained at the Student’s IEP.
27. The IEP noted that Student needed improvement in reading comprehension to be successful in school. Student’s visual and auditory processing and sensory-motor skills could cause Student difficulty in following instructions presented orally and visually in the general education classroom. Student’s reading goal was to maintain 75% criteria for a period of 10 weeks on questions about important elements of a test about Student’s independent reading level, implemented by the special education teacher. The reading goal listed three objectives or benchmarks, each being a measurable ability to: identify facts from a reading passage, by January 2008; determine meaning by the context of a sentence, by March 2008; and draw conclusions from a given reading passage, by June 2008.
28. For algebra and functions, the PLOP noted that Student scored 256 on the California Standardized Testing and Reporting (STAR), which he took in Spring 2007, placing Student far below basic. Student scored in the 55th percentile in measurement, 35th in rational numbers, and 30th in exponents. On the same test, Student scored 10% on multi-step problems, demonstrating a need to improve understanding how to do multi-step problems so he could be successful in algebra. Student’s annual goal (by September 2008) was to solve multi-step problems with a variable, including word problems, by maintaining a 75% criteria for a period of 10 weeks on tests and work samples, implemented and measured by the special education teacher. The math goal listed three objectives or benchmarks, each being a measurable ability to: solve two element equations containing one letter, box or other symbol, by January 2008; solve mathematical expressions that use parentheses using correct order of operation, by March 2008; and use the correct order of operations to evaluate algebraic expression, by June 2008.
29. For Writing Applications, the PLOP noted that Student was able to write simple sentences and a paragraph with a complete thought, but needed to expand his sentence-writing into more complex sentences. Student’s annual goal (by September 2008) was to demonstrate an understanding of proper English usage and sentence structure, when given a written/verbal prompt, by maintaining a 75% criteria for a period of 10 weeks on tests and work samples, implemented and measured by the special education teacher. The writing goal listed three objectives or benchmarks, each being a measurable ability to: combine two short sentences into a compound sentence using a conjunction, by January 2008; combine two shorter sentences into a complex sentence, by March 2008; and use simple, compound, and compound-complex sentences, to express complete thoughts, by June 2008.
30. The September 2007 IEP included a Transition to Adult Life plan, listing Career Cruising as the primary tool. Career Cruising is a computer-based program that administers various questionnaires and provides information about different careers. The program provided Student with a list of about 40 different careers. By merely “clicking” on a career, the program provided information, such as employment opportunities, pay scale, and educational requirements. Student could also print out materials about any particular career for further study. Student completed Career Cruising in the ninth grade. Transition services included vocational guidance, with career-interest testing, with Student on a general curriculum course of study. Ms. Chapleau stated that the ninth grade transition goal is not merely to state what the Student thought he wanted to be, but instead, to provide Student with the tools necessary to evaluate his abilities and to explore career options.
31. The September 2007 IEP team collectively addressed Student’s transition plan. A transition specialist was not present since one usually does not attend freshman or sophomore IEP meetings. The Transition PLOP stated that Student was interested in becoming a stockbroker. The Transition annual goal (by September 2008) was for Student to learn about and be able to explain his disability and the accommodations he needed in order to be successful in school and ultimately in the work place. The Transition goal listed two objectives or benchmarks: Student would learn about his particular disability and necessary accommodations, by June 2008; and Student would be able to explain and write about his disability, by June 2008.
32. The IEP also provided for a “hot pass” that would allow Student additional time to transition between classes or permission to go to the health office.
33. The September 2007 IEP offer was approved by the entire team and signed by Student, Mother, Father and Student’s attorney.
34. An IEP meeting was held on November 2, 2007, for the sole purpose of adding adaptive physical education (APE) goals to Student’s current IEP. The PLOP for motor skills development noted that Student attended the APE class, used the weight room equipment properly, and gave a great effort. The team recommended that Student should continue to try and improve his trunk strength, recommending Student continue to attend the APE class with appropriate goals and objectives. An APE goal was developed that Student perform 20 cross-arm sit-ups in one minute, in three out of five trials, over a period of 10 weeks, as implemented by the APE teacher, classroom teacher and Parent. The IEP Minutes recorded the Mother’s stated concern that Student was currently then getting an “F” in Guitar, Student’s only general education class, and that Student was not being allowed to make up tests. No other issues were noted and the IEP was signed as approved by Student and Mother. No other IEP meetings were held during the 2007-2008 school year.
35. A March 1, 2008 progress report stated that Student made: some progress toward his second reading objective, progress toward his second math objective (with the note that the goal should be continued), some progress toward his second writing objective, and some progress toward the second APE objective. The next Transition goal objective was for June 2008 and, therefore, was not addressed.
36. A May 22, 2008 progress report stated that Student made: some progress toward his third reading objective, progress toward his third math objective (with the note that the goal should be continued), progress toward the transition goal’s second benchmark (with the note that the goal should be continued), and some progress toward the third APE objective. The progress report was silent as to the third writing objective.
37. Student’s spring 2008 STAR testing score in English was far below basic. Student did not take the other three components of the STAR for 2008. Student’s grades for the first and second semesters of his freshman year were: D and D, in Healthful Living; A and C, in Literature Support 1; C and B, in Beginning Guitar; A and A, in APE; A and C, in English; and D and D, in Pre-Algebra.
38. Student attended school at Eastside in the summer of 2008. He received 10 credits for two classes. He got a grade of C in the Math Seminar and a grade of B in the Reading/Writing Seminar.
39. On September 23, 2008, Mother signed a Student Assessment Plan, authorizing District to conduct assessments in preparation for Student’s upcoming triennial IEP. The assessment plan contemplated assessments in pre-academic/academic achievement, cognitive development, psychomotor development, and medical, health and development. The assessment would also include a hearing and vision screening. With the Student Assessment Plan, District provided Parents with a Notice of Intent to Conduct Pupil Assessment. The notice informed Parents of the applicable timeline for new assessments, as well as an invitation to make an appointment with staff to discuss procedures and tests to be used in the assessment process. The notice also informed Parents that they have the right to have someone else assess Student and offered to explain the procedure to them upon request. Mother also signed the Notice of Intent.
40. School psychologist Michael Morgan testified at the hearing. He prepared the Psychoeducational Summary Report for Student, which was presented at an October 16, 2008 triennial IEP meeting. Mr. Morgan had been the school psychologist for 10 years. He conducts assessments, speaks with parents, does student observations, administers testing, and interprets the results of tests conducted by other district employees (primarily by reviewing their summaries). Before working for the District, Mr. Morgan worked two years for the Lancaster School District and one year of independent practice. In his 13 years, he has conducted in excess of 750 psychoeducational evaluations. Mr. Morgan has a bachelor of arts degree in psychology and a masters in education, with a psychology specialization. He is credentialed with a specialization in school psychology but is not licensed as a school psychologist. Mr. Morgan presents workshops for District teachers and assists in developing programs for students disabled with emotional disturbance (ED). Students training to be school psychologists have interned with Mr. Morgan. Two years ago, he attended the National Association of School Psychologists meeting and is a past member of the California Association of School Psychologists (CASP), through which he participated in conferences and workshops. He has had professional development through in-service training with the District. As a school psychologist, Mr. Morgan possessed all the required qualifications, experience and training to conduct assessments, including the administration and interpretation of standardized tests, and development of IEP goals and objectives. Mr. Morgan testified in a careful and knowledgeable manner and his testimony was generally persuasive.
41. Prior to conducting the assessments, Mr. Morgan researched Student’s neuromuscular disorder CMT. He did not interview Parents as part of the psychoeducational assessment. Mr. Morgan did not observe Student in class. As part of the preparation of the psychoeducational assessment, Mr. Morgan reviewed and relied upon the psychoeducational report of January 14, 2005. Mr. Morgan could not recall how much he used this 2005 assessment in analyzing his own testing of Student. The 2005 assessment notes that Student had significant difficulties with fine-motor skills and became easily fatigued during written tasks. In addition, the 2005 summary indicates that Student was diagnosed with ADHD, but also said that Student was not demonstrating consistent attention problems.
42. Mr. Morgan had previously attended Student’s IEP meetings in 2007. He noted in his report that Student was identified as dyslexic but did not recommend testing for dyslexia at those meetings. Dyslexia is weakness in the areas of reading, affecting a student’s basic reading, reading comprehension, spelling, and written expression. Dyslexia is assessed by giving an academic assessment, an intellectual ability assessment and a processing battery. The processing battery includes tests for visual-motor integration, motor-free visual perception, and auditory processing. For the 2007-2008 school year, Student’s classes were all special education classes, except for Guitar. However, when computing the percentage of time in which Student is in general education during the school day (46%), the time computation includes time outside the special education classes, such as lunch or other free time.
43. Mr. Morgan’s Psychoeducational Summary Report confirmed that Student had a specific learning disability (SLD) and had average cognitive ability. Mr. Morgan used the following evaluation procedures: records review (back to the last triennial in 2005); Student interview dated 9/18/2008; Behavior Assessment for Children, Second Edition (BASC-2) – Self Report (ages 12-18) dated 9/23/2008; BASC-2 – Teacher Rating Scales (ages 12-21) dated 9/22/2008; Developmental Test of Visual-Motor Integration, Fourth Edition dated 9/18/2008; Motor-Free Visual Perception Test, Third Edition dated 9/18/2008; Kaufman Test of Educational Achievement, Second Edition (KTEA II); Sentence Completion Form dated 9/18/2008; vocational interview dated 9/18/2008; Test of Auditory Processing Skills, Third Edition dated 9/24/2008; and Kaufman Brief Intelligence Test, Second Edition dated 9/23/2008.
44. The achievement scores indicated that Student was deficient in all areas of academic achievement except for math concepts and applications. Student did not have an auditory disorder but did have visual processing and sensory-motor skills disorders. Student has a discrepancy in reading and written language.
45. Mr. Morgan was aware that Student had been diagnosed with dyslexia, which he confirmed using the following tests: visual-motor integration, motor-free visual perception test, auditory processing, and the Kaufman Brief Intelligence Test. The visual-motor integration test measures how the brain interprets and integrates visual information into motor ability. Student was asked to reproduce drawings, requiring Student to use his hands. Student had a VMI score of 7, with a standard score of 78, demonstrating a significant discrepancy between intellectual ability and his performance on the subtest. Mr. Morgan recorded the test results in the summary report. Though Mr. Morgan did not use the term “dyslexia,” the test results confirm dyslexia as a condition of Student’s specific learning disability. Mother did not realize Student was tested for dyslexia.
46. The BASC-2 includes tests related to attention deficit. Mr. Morgan concluded from his administration of the BASC-2 that Student did not have attention problems. Instead, Mr. Morgan noted that Student’s behavior problems were that he sometimes broke the rules or disrupted other students’ activities.
47. The 2008 assessment had written components, including the Sentence Completion Form and the written component section of the KTEA II. Some of Student’s responses in these sections were longer than one sentence and one paragraph but none were longer than a five-paragraph essay.
48. Ms. Chapleau conducted the KTEA II testing for the Psychoeducational Summary Report. She gave the scores to Mr. Morgan, the school psychologist; she did not give him the raw test materials. Ms. Chapleau administered the testing protocols for the areas in which Student was being tested. Student completed a Student Response Booklet for the KTEA II testing. Ms. Chapleau then scored the responses. Ms. Chapleau explained at hearing that she wrote the wrong score for two of about 60 measures of Student’s responses to prompts in written expression. These two mistakes did not significantly affect the reliability of the KTEA II results.
49. In his testimony, Mr. Morgan discussed the areas of discrepancy between the achievement tests from the 2005 triennial IEP with those conducted in 2008, which was reflected in the records review portion of the 2008 psychoeducational summary report. KTEA II standardized test was conducted in 2008, while Woodcock-Johnson III (WJ-III) standardized tests were used in 2005. Student’s 2005 triennial IEP indicated that the WJ-III score for Letter-Word Identification was 73; the 2008 KTEA II score in the same area was a 66. In 2005, Student scored a 77 in reading comprehension; in 2008, a score of 70. Mr. Morgan acknowledged that the KTEA II and WJ-III standardized test scores both assess levels of academic achievement and are comparable. However, Mr. Morgan stated that a decrease in the raw numerical scores does not mean a loss of academic skills. The scores are comparisons among same-aged peers. A decrease in a score may simply mean that the Student did not acquire additional skills at the same rate as his peers. A better measure of Student’s progress was that Student continued in the 10th grade with the second level of READ 180, having tested into the second level from his ninth grade year. Mr. Morgan stated that the 2008 triennial IEP meeting addressed Student’s reading comprehension needs with goals and objectives.
50. The psychoeducational assessment included a vocational interview with Student, who indicated a desire to work in the stock market. Mr. Morgan did not further address transitional services in the report. Student was already receiving the services and building a portfolio in the areas of interest, which was addressed by the IEP team.
51. In his report, Mr. Morgan noted that Student had CMT Disease and recommended that the triennial IEP team discuss whether other health impairment (OHI) should be considered a secondary eligibility. In doing so, Mr. Morgan noted that the disease could cause, in addition to the loss of gross motor strength and skills, progressive arm weakness as distal muscles atrophy. The IEP team should discuss whether the disease limited Student’s vitality and alertness, which adversely affected educational performance.
52. Mr. Morgan explained at hearing that a triennial assessment is different from an initial assessment because there are prior records, evaluations and IEPs. Testing for a triennial is not viewed in isolation. A triennial assessment incorporates information from many sources, such as teachers. Looking at standardized test scores in isolation can be misleading. For example, a poor performance on a test might be explained by a teacher who noted a student’s problem with his health or energy.
53. Mr. Morgan concluded that Student received educational benefit in reading since his freshman year annual IEP, to the present, as indicated by an increasing Lexile score, year after year. Student also received educational benefit in math, as indicated by the STAR testing baseline in 2007 increasing by 2008. Student received educational benefit in writing as indicated by Student’s progress towards the IEP goal and objectives for writing application. Student’s progress can be demonstrated by means other than one-on-one testing of a student. Lexile scores, classroom grades, CST scores, non-standardized measures, in addition to the standardized STAR and CAHSEE scores, were all considered. Since the triennial 2008 Psychoeducational Summary Report, Mr. Morgan has not received or seen any information regarding Student which would cause him to change anything in the report.
54. Student’s triennial IEP was convened on October 16, 2008. Attending were: Student; Mother; Father; District administrator Matthew Anderson (though he did not sign the IEP); general education teacher, M. Lopez; District nurse, Olga Magana; special day class (SDC) teacher, Ms. Chapleau; adapted PE specialist, Chris Malloy; and the District’s school psychologist, Mr. Morgan. The assistive technology technician, Mr. Cook, was not present and the team agreed to reconvene later to address Student’s assistive technology needs.
55. Mr. Morgan’s Psychoeducational Summary Report was reviewed by the team.
56. The team also received the Nursing Service Plan report. The nurse conducted an assessment, evaluating Student’s physical, cognitive, and emotional impairment on functioning, using a five-point scale. Student ranked number one, which meant that he was independent in his ability to perform his own personal daily care without human assistance. The nurse noted that Student used bilateral AFO (ankle-foot orthoses) braces to lower extremities at all times, because of the CMT condition, and that Student could not ambulate without them. Student passed the hearing and vision screening, and was current on all immunizations. The nurse concluded that Student did not require a standardized or an individualized school healthcare plan.
57. The IEP team considered whether Student’s CMT disease limited his vitality and alertness, which adversely affected educational performance. The team discussed CMT, which is characterized by degeneration of the peroneal muscles of the lower leg bone, resulting in clubfoot, foot-drop and unsteady gait. CMT could cause Student to tire easily. He could not stand for long periods of time or walk fast. CMT could also lead to progressive arm weakness because of distal muscles atrophy. The team decided to add OHI as a secondary disability.
58. The attending special education teacher reviewed Student’s progress, stating that Student had met his goals from his last IEP. Therefore, the IEP team developed new goals in reading, math, writing, transition (self-awareness), transition (self-advocacy), and APE, with corresponding objectives and benchmarks, after noting Student’s Present Levels of Performance (PLOP) in each area.
59. For reading comprehension, Student’s PLOP was based upon his KTEA II test in September 2008 in which Student received a standard score of 70. Letter & Word Identification, for which Student had a standard score of 66, was noted as an area in which he needed improvement. Student’s visual processing 9 and sensory-motor skills could cause Student difficulty in following instructions presented orally and visually in the general education classroom. Student’s reading goal was for Student to use knowledge of antonyms, synonyms, homophones and homographs to determine the meaning of words, as measured by work samples and observation record maintenance, with 75% accuracy, implemented by the special education teacher. The reading goal listed three objectives or benchmarks, each being a measurable ability to: use antonyms to determine the meaning of words, by December 2008; use synonyms to determine the meaning of words, by March 2009; and use homophones and homographs to determine meaning of words, by June 2009. As noted by Ms. Chapleau and other witnesses, Student was in the second year of the READ 180 class, which required Student to have passed the READ 180 benchmarks for the first year.
60. Mother remained deeply concerned about Student’s reading. She observed Student struggling in reading and writing. Mother testified that Student was always asking her or his little brother what things meant.
61. In the area of Math, the PLOP noted Student scored 85 on the KTEA II Concepts and Applications math test, indicating needed improvement in Math Computation, in which Student scored 82. Student’s annual goal (by October 2009) was, with core curriculum materials, to apply algebraic order of operations and the commutative, associative, and distributive properties to evaluate expressions, justifying each step in the process, with 70% accuracy, as implemented and measured by the special education teacher. The math goal was broken down into three objectives, each being a measurable ability to apply algebraic order of operations and: the commutative property to evaluate expressions, justifying each step in the process; the associative property to evaluate expressions, justifying each step in the process; and the distributive property to evaluate expressions, justifying each step in the process. No separate goal was developed for fractions, an area of difficulty for Student as indicated by his KTEA II testing results.
62. For Writing Applications, the PLOP records Student’s KTEA II Written Language score as 85; however, Student received a 65 on the Spelling subtest. Student’s annual goal (by October 2009) was to proofread a paragraph for errors in spelling, grammar, capitalization, and punctuation, measured by work samples and teacher-made tests, maintaining 75% accuracy, implemented and measured by the special education teacher. The writing goal listed three objectives or benchmarks, each being a measurable ability to proofread a paragraph for errors in spelling with 60% accuracy by December 2008, 65% accuracy by March 2009, and 70% accuracy by June 2009.
63. The Transition to Adult Life plan identified the career-interest inventory to be completed by Student, in the regular classroom, by September 2009. The plan indicated that Student would be attending community college within one year of exiting high school. Two goals were set for Transition. The first was Self-Awareness, with the PLOP observing that Student wanted to be a stockbroker and followed the stock market. However, Student needed to gather information about potential careers for his transition portfolio. The stated goal for Self-Awareness was for Student to develop a transition portfolio, in the classroom, which would include personal information, personal strengths, career-interests, and resources for adult supports, measured by work samples and observation records, implemented by the special education teacher. The Self-Awareness goal had two measurable benchmarks: Student’s portfolio would include personal information and personal strengths, by March 2009; and Student would use Career Cruising print-out information to identify five career interests, by June 2009.
65. The IEP team reviewed an APE assessment report and agreed that Student would not be able to pass the physical fitness test because of the nature of Student’s disability (CMT). The IEP team deemed Student exempt from the SB-601 11 requirement and the team agreed that the exemption was appropriately documented by Student’s physician’s note. Student’s APE would be “dismissed” at the end of the 2008-09 school year, since it would no longer be a needed service.
66. At the time of the triennial IEP, Student had 80 of the 230 credits needed to be eligible for a high school diploma. For graduation, Student would also need to complete the senior project, Algebra 1, and the California High School Exit Examination (CAHSEE), according to state standards.
67. Ms. Chapleau recalled that the IEP team discussed after-school tutoring. Both special education and general education teachers were available to students, who merely needed to show up with work for tutoring. The tutoring schedule is available to students; the schedule is posted next to Ms. Chapleau’s classroom door. The tutoring was a recommendation, which was available to all students; the team did not add tutoring to the IEP as a designated service.
68. The IEP team affirmed Student’s need for SDC instruction, with 54% of his school day in special education. Student’s placement for academic classes was in a SDC and adaptive physical education (APE) was continued. The IEP team agreed that Student should continue the placement with special academic instruction in math, English and science. The team agreed that the Youth Employment Skills (YES) was an appropriate class for Student to take in the 2009-2010 school year. Student, Mother, and Father approved and signed the IEP.
69. The triennial IEP reconvened on November 7, 2008. Attending were: Student; Mother; Father; District administrator, Matthew Anderson; general education teacher, Robyn Young; SDC teacher, Ms. Chapleau; assistive technology technician, Mr. Cook; and the District’s school psychologist, Mr. Morgan. The IEP team reconvened to address Student’s assistive technology and PE goals and objectives, which were not fully addressed at the October 2008 meeting. General education teacher Ms. Young attended because Student’s PE teacher was ill and could not attend.
70. The reconvened triennial IEP team adopted new motor skills developmental goal and objectives in PE. The PLOP notes that Student did not display the ability to pass last year’s goal of 20 cross-arm sit-ups in one minute. The Student stated that the sit-ups were too painful for him to perform when being evaluated. Therefore, the 20 cross-arm sit up goal would not be continued. Since Student can perform 22 push-ups before exhaustion, the team agreed that improving this number would help build endurance and improve upper body strength. The annual goal was for Student to perform 30 push-ups until exhaustion, as observed by teacher, maintaining three out of five trials over a period of 10 weeks. The benchmark objectives, measured by teacher observation, were: 25 push-ups until exhaustion, over 10 weeks, by December 2008; 27 push-ups until exhaustion, over 10 weeks, by February 2009; and 28 push-ups until exhaustion, over 10 weeks, by May 2009.
71. The IEP notes stated that Parent was interested in doing away with the AlphaSmart and implementing a different assistive technology device that would better help Student. Mother testified that the IEP team was not receptive to her suggestions regarding AT, such as text-to-speech software which would enable Student to listen to text he would otherwise have difficulty reading. Mother believed the software could be downloaded for free, but was told that the District does not download software.
72. AT specialist Mr. Cook was unaware of Parents’ desire to get rid of the AlphaSmart before this IEP. At hearing, Mr. Cook could not recall the Parents’ reasons why the AlphaSmart was not right for Student. The IEP team addressed the AlphaSmart. Mr. Cook emphasized that Student needed to be able to type. Mr. Cook learned that Student was not using the SpongeBob program to improve his typing skills 12 and Mr. Cook believed this contributed to Student’s failure to make use of the AlphaSmart. Mother suggested speech recognition software, such as Dragon Speak. Mr. Cook thought the program would be too laborious for Student because it would take a long time for the software to learn Student’s voice.
73. The team discussed word prediction software, which Mother stated was her suggestion. Mr. Cook testified that there were many types of word prediction software, some powerful enough to predict or suggest contextual words. The IEP narrative refers to a WordsPlus (Words+) AT program as an example of such software which could help Student with typing reports.
74. Mr. Cook did not conduct any AT assessment of the suitability of word prediction software for Student. The IEP indicated that Mr. Cook and Mother would arrange to meet at the Words+ store to review the various word prediction programs they offer. Mr. Cook wanted to take the family to Words+ to become familiar with how word prediction worked. The District did not have any devices with word prediction software.
75. At hearing, Mother testified that she was frustrated with the District’s AT approach. She states that the IEP document does not reflect her concerns about the AlphaSmart. She said that Student did not use the AlphaSmart because he could not read the screen because of his dyslexia. Mother testified that she told the IEP team that the family wanted to give the AlphaSmart back because Student was not using it. She also claimed that she did not receive the SpongeBob program as of the November 2008 reconvened triennial IEP meeting and that the family did not always have a computer to run the program. Yet, the IEP narrative stated that the IEP team discussed the need for Student to type. Neither the IEP nor any other witness indicated that Mother told the IEP team that Student did not have the SpongeBob program or that the family did not have a computer to use the program.
76. At the IEP, Mr. Cook suggested that Student’s insurance or other medical benefits might pay for word prediction software, which meant that Student could keep the software or device after high school. Mr. Cook testified that Words+ was experienced in getting insurance to pay for its devices. He never implied nor intended that the family should pay for such software or devices. Mother said she believed that if Student liked the Word+ word prediction program, the District would purchase it.
77. The District’s AT offer was the AlphaSmart and color overlays, with an understanding that Mother and assistive technology technician, Mr. Cook, would arrange to meet at Words+ to review the various programs they offer. Mother, Father, and Student approved and signed the IEP.
78. Mr. Cook testified that he misstated Words+ was a software program, at the reconvened triennial IEP. He later discovered that Words+ sold specialized communication devices, with word prediction software (EZ Keys). According to Mr. Cook, Word+ did not separately sell the software.
79. Mother said Mr. Cook invited her to go to Words+. She said she did not go because she found out insurance would not cover the program. Mr. Cook confirmed that Mother declined, but could not recall why. Mr. Cook took Student and his Father to the Words+ store, but not until September 2009.
80. A December 3, 2008 progress report showed that Student made: some progress toward his first reading objective; progress toward the first math objective, with a note that the goal should be continued; some progress toward meeting his first writing objective; insufficient progress to meet his career exploration transition goal; and some progress toward his first APE objective.
81. A March 12, 2009 progress report stated that Student made: some progress toward his second reading objective; some progress toward his second math objective, with a note that the goal should be continued; some progress toward the second writing objective; some progress toward his second career exploration transition objective; some progress toward the second APE objective; and progress toward his only benchmark objective for his self-awareness, with the note that the goal should be continued.
82. A May 20, 2009 progress report stated that Student made: some progress toward his third reading objective; progress toward his third math objective, with a note that the goal should be continued; some progress toward the third writing objective; some progress toward his second career exploration transition objective (this goal had only two benchmarks); and some progress toward the third APE objective.
83. Student’s spring 2009 STAR testing score in English was far below basic, in Biology was far below basic, and in Life Science was far below basic. Student did not take the Math and World History components of the STAR for 2009. Student’s grades for the first and second semesters of his sophomore year were: D and D, in Algebra 1A; D and B, in Literature Support 2; D and C, in Life Science; A and A, in APE; C and C, in English; and A and A, in Student Aide. The school did not notice any special IEP meetings during the remainder of the 2008-2009 school year, nor did Student’s family.
84. Student attended school at Eastside in the summer of 2009. He received five credits for a class in math preparation for the California High School Exit Exam (CAHSEE). He got a grade of A.
85. During the first two years of Student’s attendance at Eastside, Student attended classes in temporary trailers while the District was constructing a new high school campus and buildings. By the summer of 2009, the campus was almost complete.
86. During summer school, Mother was able to drive Student through a delivery gate into a parking area, and drop Student off near a pedestrian gate. The distance from the pedestrian gate to the classrooms was shorter than the distance from where students would typically enter the campus.
87. Some of the new buildings had two floors. The second floors were accessed by stairs or elevators. The elevators required a key and were not for general use. Eastside Security and some other District employees had elevator keys. No student or non-employee had elevator keys. The campus was also much larger and, depending on class schedules, students might have to walk greater distances than before, when classes were in temporary trailers.
88. In the summer of 2009, Mother obtained and gave District a number of letters and notes from doctors, including Gonzalo G. Martinez, M.D., Yu-En Lee, M.D., and Saul M. Bernstein, M.D. In a note 13 dated June 8, 2009, Dr. Martinez asked that Student be able to ride his “razor scooter” on campus because of his mobility problem. 14 In a letter dated June 18, 2009, Dr. Bernstein wrote that Student’s lower extremity weakness makes it extremely difficult for him to ambulate long distances. Therefore, Dr. Bernstein recommended that Student be allowed to utilize his “razor scooter” for mobility from his vehicle to his classroom. Dr. Bernstein also said that Student would benefit from using the elevators at school “as stairs can be difficult as well.” Finally, by a letter dated July 7, 2009, Dr. Lee similarly requested that Student be allowed to use his “razor scooter” from his vehicle to his classroom, as well as use the elevators, “since stairs can be difficult.” Dr. Lee said he was in agreement with Dr Bernstein. 15 None of these doctor recommendations stated that Student could not use the stairs.
89. When the new school year began in the fall of 2009, Mother could no longer drive through the delivery gate and drop Student off at the pedestrian gate. Student was walking a greater distance to get to his first class. Also, Student’s sixth period class (as well as the student center and library) were on the second floor. Generally, Student was walking greater distances to get to classes, as well as having to get to the second floor.
90. Mother was very upset that she could no longer drop Student off at the pedestrian gate because the delivery gate was locked. Mother and Student were displeased with the initial arrangement for Student to use the elevators, which was to call and wait for Security.
91. Christopher Haymond is the Director of Security at Eastside High School. He has worked for the District for eight years and has been Director for the past five years. Previously, Mr. Haymond was a Los Angeles County Sheriff for 22 years. Mr. Haymond demonstrated a keen awareness of the Eastside campus, the layout, the security measures utilized to maintain safety, and the demands upon and resources of the security staff. Mr. Haymond appeared sincere throughout his testimony, giving direct and unambiguous answers. He was a very credible witness.
92. Mr. Haymond measured the distance from the pedestrian gate to Student’s first period class, which was 275 feet. He also measured the distance from where students would typically be dropped off, in front of the Temporary Office, to Student’s first period class, which was 512 feet. When Mother does not have access through the delivery gate to the pedestrian gate, Student must walk an additional 235 feet.
93. When summer school began, Parents asked Mr. Haymond for a key to the delivery gate so they would have access to drive Student to the pedestrian gate for his first class. Eastside campus is a closed campus. The delivery gate is one of the perimeter gates to the school. Mr. Haymond declined the request, determining that the issuance of keys to non-employees would be unsafe and compromise security. Mr. Haymond also did not want non-employees driving in an otherwise restricted area where students may be walking. Students in the school’s Desert Wind classes and independent study classes enter through a walk-through gate, next to the delivery gate. He acknowledged that the delivery gate was open during the summer of 2009 as part of the campus construction project.
94. An IEP team met on September 1, 2009, for the stated purpose of addressing Student’s mobility needs on the new Eastside campus. Attending were: Student; Mother; Father; the Student’s advocate, Claudia Petryshyn; Vice Principal A. Ritter; general education teacher, T. Estrada; District nurse, Olga Magana; special day class (SDC) teacher, Ms. Chapleau; program specialist, Johan Mekel; assistive technology technician, Mr. Cook; District school psychologist, Mr. Morgan; and Director of Security, Mr. Haymond. Since this was not the annual IEP meeting, the goals and objectives from the prior annual IEP remained the same and were not addressed at this meeting.
95. The IEP team addressed three issues regarding Student’s mobility on the new Eastside campus: the long walk to Student’s first class; elevator access to the second floor; and general mobility about the larger campus during the school day.
96. Access through the delivery gate was discussed. Mr. Haymond said that the Parents were asking for a key to the gate. Mr. Haymond told them of the security and liability concerns of allowing non-employees access through the delivery gate. Parents offered to sign a “waiver,” but Mr. Haymond said that did not address his concern for student safety and would not protect the District from liability if a student were hurt. Based on the conversation about the gate at the IEP meeting, Mr. Haymond believed the Parents intended on opening the gate themselves, which posed additional concern for safety and liability. The gate had two swinging sides, each weighing 200 to 300 pounds. Gates were locked and no one was posted at the gates.
97. Program specialist Johan Mekel testified as the hearing. He plans and develops programs, coordinates curriculum resources, assists teachers, provides training for District and SELPA, provides training on the new IEP program at District and SELPA, attends eighth grade transition IEP meetings, and attends IEP meetings which might require special attention related to resources. Mr. Mekel has been the District program specialist for five years; all of his duties are within special education. Mr. Mekel stated District wanted to use the special education bus to transport Student because the bus would drop Student off closer to his classroom and would also assist Student in being on time. At the IEP, the Parents declined the offer, saying the busses do not have heaters. Mr. Mekel had never received any complaints that the buses were too cold.
98. The team discussed Student’s use of his razor scooter on campus, which addressed both issues of getting to his first class and moving about the larger campus. Mr. Haymond indicated that the razor scooter posed safety and liability issues. The campus has 2,300 students and the risk of injury was too great. The offer to sign a waiver did not answer these concerns. Mr. Haymond testified that even if Student did ride his razor scooter on campus, he would have required Student to wear safety gear.
99. The IEP team discussed the possibility of a Security golf cart transporting Student to his first class. Mr. Haymond stated that Security could not guarantee a cart’s availability. Eastside has two carts and their primary purpose is to serve security needs for the large campus. If a Security cart is available to give Student a ride on campus between classes, Security will do so. However, a Security cart’s availability cannot be guaranteed.
101. The IEP team discussed using a wheelchair, which could pick Student up at the office before school and transport him to his first period class; then at the end of the day, the wheelchair would pick him up and take him back to the front office. Mother declined, saying the doctor does not want Student to use a wheelchair at this time. Mother expressed concern about Student’s mobility, especially to and from his first class. The IEP stated that the District would pursue other options.
102. The IEP team discussed Student’s access to the elevator, enabling him to go to his sixth period class on the second floor. Part of the school safety plan is that upstairs teachers have elevator keys; therefore, they would be responsible for getting Student downstairs. When Student needed to go upstairs, if a teacher with an elevator key was not available, Student could call Security. Mr. Haymond testified that this procedure was used for other students who may have needed to use the elevator. Mr. Haymond testified that Student’s possession of an elevator key caused a number of safety concerns, including Student getting stuck in the elevator and other students getting into the elevator, where they would be unsupervised. The elevators were not equipped with cameras, though there were emergency buttons and speakers. District could not assure an elevator key’s proper use when operated by a non-employee. The District would not provide Student with an elevator key.
103. Mother and Student testified that Student would often have to wait a long time for Security to come, causing Student to be late for class. Mother testified that Student would therefore take the stairs when he should not be using stairs. Mr. Mekel testified that using Security had caused Student to wait at times, but not for 30 or 50 minutes. Mr. Mekel agreed that providing an elevator key to Student for unsupervised use of the elevator posed a safety concern.
104. Though the primary purpose of the September IEP meeting was to address Student’s mobility, the assistive technology technician, Mr. Cook, was present. The IEP team discussed Student’s AT. The IEP noted that Student and Parents needed to meet with the District AT technician and a Words+ representative. The IEP reads “Words Plus would be used for home use and has word prediction software built in.” Various downloadable programs were discussed that would be free for Student to use. Student’s advocate recommended text-to-speech software to use in his SDC classes.
105. The IEP stated that the SpongeBob software would be ordered for Student. According to Mr. Cook, this was the first he heard that Student claimed not to have the SpongeBob software; Mr. Cook maintained that he gave the SpongeBob program to the family at the September 2007 IEP meeting. Since Mr. Cook did not have any SpongeBob programs available, he had to order another copy.
106. Mr. Cook told Student and Parents that he was obtaining hardware, called a Fusion. The IEP read that the Fusion was a dictation device. In his testimony, Mr. Cook states that the Fusion is not a dictation device but is a word processor. Mr. Cook brought a Fusion to the hearing. The Fusion is a keyboard with a screen. Though it resembles the AlphaSmart, the Fusion has a larger screen, and is slightly bigger and heavier. The Fusion’s software storage of files is streamlined and better structured than that of the AlphaSmart. The primary difference was the Fusion’s software capabilities. The Fusion had text-to-speech capability, word prediction software, spelling and vocabulary, adjustable font size, a math component and, significantly, built-in keyboarding (typing) instruction. To print, the Fusion needed to connect to a computer or the document could be downloaded to a flash drive. Mr. Cook testified that classrooms have computers, which Student could use for printing. The Fusion had a rechargeable battery (AlphaSmart did not), cannot be overcharged, and came from a California company which offered great technical support for Student, Parents or Mr. Cook, if there was any problem. When Mr. Cook was first introduced to the Fusion, he testified that he first thought of Student.
107. Mr. Cook testified that the IEP stated that Student would be provided with the Fusion on a trial basis because Student did not use the AlphaSmart. Mr. Cook wanted to encourage Student to use the Fusion, which he believed met Student’s needs. Mr. Cook did not do a formal AT assessment of Student. He had used the 2006 AT assessment, which he did not update. Mr. Cook ordered the Fusion for Student the day of the IEP, September 1, 2009. At hearing, Mr. Cook testified that he was unaware of how CMT affected Student’s strength. Mr. Cook did not consider how Student’s CMT might affect Student’s ability to use his AT.
108. The IEP team discussed color overlays and agreed to order blue and purple. Student, Mother, Father, and Student’s advocate approved and signed the IEP.
109. Within a couple of weeks of the September 1, 2009 IEP, Mr. Cook took Student and Father to Words+ to see the word prediction software on the Words+ devices. Mr. Cook testified that he wanted Student to see for himself what the word prediction software could do for him. Student seemed excited about the software. Mr. Cook never told Student or Parents that the District was purchasing a Word+ device. Mr. Cook had already ordered the Fusion, which had word prediction software.
110. An annual IEP team meeting was held on October 8, 2009. Attending were: Student; Mother; Father; Student’s advocate, Claudia Petryshyn; District administrator, Aaron Ritter; general education teacher, Tizoc Estrada; District nurse, Olga Magana; SDC teacher, Ms. Chapleau; SDC teacher, Ronald Coleman; SDC teacher, Brandy Levy; SDC teacher, Tenicia Takamatsu; District program specialist, Mr. Mekel; Eastside counselor, Melody Briseño; itinerant orthopedic impairment teacher, Peter Clarkson; and assistive technology technician, Mr. Cook.
111. This IEP was the first IEP for which Ms. Chapleau took notes on a new computer program. She had problems documenting all the discussions and, specifically, making sure that all the information was on the correct page and properly filled out.
112. The IEP team reviewed a Report of Itinerant Teacher Orthopedic Impairment (ITOI) completed by Peter Clarkson, ITOI. The ITOI observed and evaluated Student’s motor difficulties, relative to writing and walking around the campus, for the purpose of making recommendations for Student’s IEP. Mr. Clarkson observed Student writing and reviewed his written work. Though he was able to get his written work done within reasonable time limits, typing assignments on his portable word processor would make his work easier to read. The ITOI recommended that Student utilize his typing tutorial program and practice his typing skills for at least half an hour per day. However, Student said he was usually too tired when he gets home. Therefore, the ITOI recommended a typing goal as part of his English/language arts.
114. Student would qualify for funding if his secondary eligibility was changed from OHI to OI, or severe orthopedic impairment, which is defined as “an orthopedic impairment that adversely affects the student’s educational progress.” This would be considered a “low-incidence disability” and would qualify Student to receive low-incidence funds. With the energy Student would save by using the scooter to move about the campus, Student would be more likely to practice his typing, four to five days a week, for at least a half hour. Accordingly, the ITOI recommended and drafted two goals. The first goal was for personal qualities in the area of vocational skills, with the Student demonstrating personal promptness for future employment by being in the classroom before the bell rings, given his use of the power mobility device. The second goal was for English and Language Arts, with the Student using the word processor and typing tutor program, 30 minutes each weekday.
115. The IEP team followed the ITOI’s recommendation and changed Student’s secondary eligibility of OHI to OI. Since the scooter was not immediately available, the District offered a wheelchair to pick Student up before school in the office and transport him to his first class; similarly, Student would be transported back to the office at the end of the day. Mother did not want a wheelchair; she wanted a Security golf cart and aide to transport Student. Though the District could provide the aide, it could not guarantee a cart since the two Eastside carts must be available for security needs. Despite the Parents’ resistance, the District purchased the three-wheeled, electronic power scooter.
116. The IEP’s Individual Transition Plan noted that Student attended the meeting and participated in the transition discussions. Student indicated that he wanted to attend college, take classes in finance and, eventually, become a stockbroker. After high school, Student intended to live on his own. Student attended the Youth Employment Skills (YES) class, which assisted Student in preparing for employment. Also, Student could meet with the school transition specialist, outside of the YES class, to discuss possible job opportunities and touring local community colleges.
117. The YES teacher, Brandy Levy, attended the IEP and reported that Student improved since the beginning of the semester. Student completed just about everything that he was missing. Student’s testing average had been about a C.
118. Ms. Levy testified at the hearing. She is a resource teacher with a special education credential and four years of experience. Previously, she was a long-term special education substitute teacher; and before that she was an instructional aide. Ms. Levy attends all the IEP meetings for students on her caseload. Student is not on her caseload, but she attended Student’s October 8, 2010 annual IEP meeting. Ms. Levy was somewhat nervous during her testimony, but demonstrated an intimate knowledge of her class materials and goals.
119. The YES class enables students to have success in the work setting. YES partners with businesses and organizations to give students opportunities to experience real world work environments and to explore a wide variety of potential careers. Student’s case manager, who also attended the IEP meeting, prepared the recommended Transition Plan. The District transition specialist is not required to attend all IEP meetings.
120. Student attends Ms. Levy’s sixth period YES class, which has 16 students. Student is assembling a career portfolio, which included employment-related documents like cover letters, resumes, thank you letters, banking letters, recommendation letters, job applications, fact sheets, interview techniques, and Dress for Success guidelines. The other students received similar portfolio assignments, but Student completed the assignments based upon his interests and strengths. All of the portfolio assignments were tailored to Student because all assignments were completed with Student’s unique input. The annual goal for Transition-Employment referred to the assignments associated with the career portfolio. A key component of the portfolio and the YES class are questionnaires and surveys which assist the students in developing five- and ten-year career plans. Ms. Levy will personally review these plans with each student. Ms. Levy said that the activities do not have to be completed within the classroom. At the time of her testimony, seven weeks remained in the school year. Student’s portfolio was not complete and further field trips were planned.
121. By the date of the hearing, Ms. Levy’s YES class had taken the following field trips: Salute to Youth in September; Antelope Valley (AV) Mall Community Classroom in December and February (each is a two-day field trip); and North Valley Occupational Center in March. Salute to Youth was a half-day event, which included vocational programs, colleges, trade and vocational schools. Vocational opportunities featured at Salute to Youth included aerospace, business, student/family science, healthcare, information technology, law, and government public services. Representatives discussed transitioning pathways out of high school to various careers. The AV Mall Community Class was a two-day learning workshop for on-the-job training and work ethics in Mall stores. A student must maintain a 2.0 grade point average (GPA), with good behavior and attendance, as conditions to attending the workshop. Student did not attend the first workshop because his December grades were low and Student told Ms. Levy that he could not afford to miss school. Student did not attend the first day of the second AV Mall workshop in February but attended the second day because he was sufficiently caught up with his school work. North Valley Occupational Center (NVOC) offers classes in different trades and occupations. NVOC focuses on post secondary vocational opportunities. Any student could enroll in the NVOC programs.
122. The YES class invited speakers from various fields, which expose students to different careers, including job requirements and education prerequisites. Unlike working with the Internet or using a book, the students could question the speakers about particular areas of interest. The YES class also used videos about job search attitude, managing money (Your Life, Your Money), and interview techniques (Rock This Interview). Ms. Levy gave an assignment associated with each video. Student was present for each video.
124. The YES class was on the second floor. Ms. Levy knew that Student was recommended to use the elevator; she has never been told that Student had to use the elevator. At the beginning of the 2009-2010 school year, Student told Ms. Levy that Security would come with a key and take him down the elevator when he completed her class. This is consistent with the September 2009 IEP. Ms. Levy became aware that this did not always work well. So, at the end of September or very early October, Security provided her with an elevator key so she could take Student down the elevator. Her duties in this regard were discussed by the October 2009 IEP team.
125. Tenicia Takamatsu is Student’s fifth period SDC English teacher. She attended the October 9, 2009 IEP meeting, and testified at the hearing. The 2009-2010 school year was her first year as a SDC teacher. She possesses a preliminary bachelor’s degree in English and an intern degree in special education. Nineteen students attend her fifth period class. At the beginning of the school year, Student would wait for Security to come and take him up the elevator to his sixth period class on the second floor. Then, Security provided a key to Ms. Takamatsu so she could take Student up the elevator without waiting for Security.
126. The 2009 annual IEP team reviewed the status of assistive technology. Mr. Cook reported that the Fusion device had been ordered and District was awaiting delivery. Mr. Cook stated that Student, Father, and he met at the Words+ store. Mr. Cook testified that he wanted Student to see what word prediction software could do, since it was a major feature of the Fusion. Mr. Cook said that Student seemed quite excited about the word prediction. The IEP’s AT report also stated that other word prediction software would be ordered which Student could use at home. Mr. Cook reported that the SpongeBob typing program, which the September IEP indicated would be ordered, was received by Mr. Cook and delivered to Parents at home. Mother confirmed receipt of the program in her testimony. Mr. Mekel testified that the overlays referred to in the September 2009 IEP had been ordered, received and distributed to Student, Student’s case manager, Mr. Cook, and Student’s teachers.
127. In addition to the ITOI’s two goals and the transition goals, the 2009 annual IEP team set goals and objectives in algebra, written language, and reading. For the reading goal, Student’s PLOP (referred to as “baseline” in the new IEP program) was that Student could comprehend passages read and answer a variety of questions related to the reading. Student’s reading goal was for Student to identify/analyze recurring themes across works (e.g. bravery, loyalty, friendship) as measured by work samples maintaining with 70% accuracy for four out of five trials.
128. For Written Language, the baseline was that Student could write simple paragraphs. The annual goal was: given a written/verbal prompt, Student would choose the form of writing that best suits the intended purpose (e.g. personal letter, letter to the editor, review, poem, report, narrative) as measured by work samples, maintaining with less than three errors per essay. The writing goal listed three measurable short-term objectives toward the annual goal.
129. For algebra, the baseline was that Student could solve equations with an unknown variable and could also add, subtract, and multiply monomials and polynomials. The annual goal was, given core curriculum materials, Student would add, subtract, multiply, and divide monomials and polynomials, by correctly factoring and reducing equations to lowest terms, as measured by work samples, maintaining 70% accuracy for four out of five trials. The algebra goal listed three measurable short-term objectives toward the annual goal.
130. The 2009 IEP listed accommodations to be afforded Student, which included note-taking support, use of a visual place holder, and access to a computer on campus. Organizational support was identified as preferential/assigned seating. Instructional strategies included repeating/rephrasing instruction, checking for understanding, and extra time to complete assignments. Strategies related to test situations included a small-group setting and extra time as needed. The IEP also identified the accommodations to be afforded Student for the 11th grade STAR testing in English Language Arts (ELA), Math, Science, History/Social Science, and Writing, as well as the CAHSEE.
132. Another IEP was held on October 22, 2009, so the team could again discuss mobility issues for Student. The Student was invited to attend, but declined. Attending were: Mother; Father; Student’s advocate, Claudia Petryshyn; District administrator, Aaron Ritter; SDC teacher, Ms. Chapleau; and District program specialist, Mr. Mekel.
133. The District offered to provide an aide and wheelchair to assist Student to his first class, with return service at the end of day. Mother again asked for a Security cart and aide. Mother said the wheelchair was against medical advice. The IEP narrative stated that Security had helped with transporting Student to his first period class but, because the Security carts are not always available, they were not a viable service option.
134. The IEP stated that the Parents also refused an electric power scooter, which Student could use to get to his first period class and around campus and return from his sixth period class back to the front office. Parents said that this option was declined for psychological reasons because it is against medical advice. Parents requested that Student be able to use his “razor scooter” as his mobility device. The District declined this option because a “razor scooter” was not an approved mobility device to assist individuals with mobility issues.
135. The IEP team discussed Student riding the bus and/or a shortened day in independent study. However, Parents said the bus was unsafe because of the stair and the temperature may not be controlled to provide heat during the winter months. Also, Mr. Mekel testified that the team did not believe a shortened day with independent study would be appropriate because he required direct support for math. Since independent study was the first period, Student’s math class would have to be moved and Student would not be able to take his general education Advanced Guitar class. The team did not want Student to miss his guitar class.
136. The IEP team said the question of the delivery gate drop-off would be further investigated. However, District witnesses testified that further inquiries only confirmed the prior determination that the delivery gate needed to remain locked and that non-employees could not possess keys, for security and liability reasons.
137. Parents requested that an evacuation plan be developed for Student and, also, that one person needed to be in charge of getting students up and down the elevator, such as an assigned aide.
139. Eastside Vice Principal Aaron Ritter testified at the hearing. Mr. Ritter attends IEP meetings as the District designee who knows about the available school and District program services. Mr. Ritter also assures that IEPs comply with state and federal law. Mr. Ritter testified that there were two IEP meetings called to address Student’s mobility issues in the fall of 2009, which were in addition to the October 2009 annual IEP meeting. Parents never had any disagreement with the educational services. Parents signed and agreed to the goals, placement, and services. In these three IEPs, the Parents’ primary concern was mobility. Mr. Ritter said that Mother specifically asked for a key to the delivery gate. Mr. Ritter said that the option of the delivery gate was further explored with Security and the Eastside principal. The District determined that the delivery gate was not an option because of security, safety, and liability issues. Gates remain locked except to employees with keys. The District must maintain security of the closed Eastside campus. There had been incidents when the Eastside campus had a security lockdown; the campus remained lockdowned until deemed safe by law enforcement. All gates to the outside were secured in such situations. Security would be compromised if any non-employee had keys to a locked gate.
140. Like Director of Security Mr. Haymond, Mr. Ritter observed Student decline rides on the Security cart, when offered. He and Mr. Haymond did not know why Student declined the rides. Student testified that he did not want to attract attention to himself. In questioning District personnel during the hearing, Student’s counsel suggested that Student might decline rides on the car because it may be physically difficult. Not only is this contrary to Student’s testimony, it conflicts with Mother’s continuing request that a Security cart take Student to his first class.
141. Mr. Mekel testified that he informed Mother in a January 22, 2010 telephone conversation that the Buzzaround Lite portable scooter had arrived and was available for Student’s use at Eastside High School. Mr. Mekel memorialized the conversation in a January 25, 2010 letter, saying that Mother did not want to “do that” to Student and make him use the scooter. She also told Mr. Mekel that she had spoken to Student’s doctor and the doctor stated that Student is doing as well as can be expected. Mr. Mekel offered to demonstrate the use of the scooter to both Student and her, further explaining how it can address Student’s mobility issues. Mother declined the offer. Mr. Mekel gave Mother his phone number, should she change her mind.
142. As of the time of his testimony during the hearing, Mr. Mekel had not heard back from Mother or Student about using the scooter.
Student’s Expert, Saul Bernstein, M.D.
143. Saul Bernstein, M.D. (Dr. Bernstein) testified at the hearing. The doctor has been a pediatric orthopedic specialist since 1970. He obtained his medical degree from the University of California, San Francisco, in 1963; his post-graduate degree was from University of Southern California School of Medicine. Thereafter, he did a fellowship in England in neurological pediatric orthopedics. He is the clinical professor of orthopedic surgery at the USC School of Medicine, where he has taught since 1968. He belongs to the American Academy of Orthopedic Surgery and the Pediatric Orthopedic Association. He has made numerous presentations and authored many academic articles. Dr. Bernstein had been treating members of Student’s family for many years. He first saw Student in 1996 and has since seen him every four to six months. Dr. Bernstein possesses the education, experience and qualifications to provide testimony as an expert regarding Student’s CMT. Dr. Bernstein was clear and direct in responding to counsels’ questions. Dr. Bernstein was very credible, demonstrating an admirable knowledge of his specialty and insightful understanding of Student’s CMT. In light of the above, Doctor Bernstein’s testimony was given great weight.
144. Dr. Bernstein confirmed that Student has CMT; the doctor has watched it develop in Student. CMT is a neurological condition where there is an abnormality of nerve conduction between the brain and the muscles. There are different types of CMT, which is a gradually progressive disease. CMT does not affect mental capacity nor does it usually shorten lifespan. As a patient ages, the muscles become weaker. Dr. Bernstein emphasized that the disease is variable, affecting patients differently, some severe and some not so severe.
145. CMT affects a patient’s legs progressively, often with drop-foot, which requires braces. Since there is a lot of soft tissue loss, the bones are prominent. The bones are not as stressed and may become weaker. Patients do not have good feeling in their legs and feet. They might be more likely to trip and would require braces to keep their feet up, decreasing the likelihood of tripping. CMT may affect the arms, but it varies amongst patients.
146. Student might be more likely to get cold, especially in the extremities because of the muscle-wasting. Dr. Bernstein continued to emphasize that CMT is variable, even among members of the same family, and that only Student can measure his strength and stamina to walk, climb, or carry. When shown an AFO brace, Dr. Bernstein confirmed it as Student’s.
147. Dr. Bernstein said that Student has a short fibula because the fibula shortens without muscle contraction, which causes some instability at the ankle. Yet, like anyone else, walking is good exercise for Student. Dr. Bernstein says that a wheelchair or other mobility device should only be used when necessary. For the most part, it is better to be up and moving. However, with longer distances or fatigue, use of a mobility device is appropriate.
148. Dr. Bernstein advised Student not to take stairs because it takes a lot of energy to get his foot in place. If he missed, Student risked falling. However, Dr. Bernstein stated that it is up to Student to determine whether he can tolerate going up or down stairs. Dr. Bernstein does not know how far Student can walk or how many stairs Student can climb. Dr. Bernstein cannot testify that Student cannot take the stairs. Ultimately, Student is the one to determine what he can or cannot do. Similarly, Student is the one who decides what weight he can carry in his backpack.
149. Dr. Bernstein confirmed that he wrote a June 18, 2009 letter regarding Student’s mobility on the Eastside campus, probably at Parents’ request. He reviewed the letter. The doctor did not say Student could not take the stairs but only that the stairs could be difficult and Student would benefit from using the elevators.
151. When using the term “razor scooter,” Doctor Bernstein meant a three-wheeled motorized scooter, with hand controls. When shown the picture of the Buzzaround Lite scooter purchased by the District, Dr. Bernstein identified it as the mobility device he meant when he used the term “razor scooter.” In other words, the District purchased exactly what the Student’s doctor had recommended. Dr. Bernstein said that Student could utilize the motorized scooter for long distances or “off days.” He did not consider the motorized scooter to be a motorized wheelchair.
152. Dr. Bernstein confirmed that he did not talk to anyone at the District. Since his letter included an invitation to contact him if there were any questions, he would not have had any privacy concerns if the District called him.
153. On January 11, 2010, Mr. Cook gave Student the Fusion device, which District ordered in September 2010. Student would not accept the headphones, which Mr. Cook provided with the Fusion because Student said he did not want to stand out. Using the headphones muted the Fusion speaker. Sound was necessary to take advantage of the Fusion text-to-speech feature.
154. Before giving the Fusion to Student, Mr. Cook trained himself on the device. Mr. Cook then trained Student on the device when delivered. Mr. Cook did not train Parent because Parent declined.
155. Student testified that the Fusion weighs too much for him to carry in his backpack. Student and his counsel demonstrated the Fusion device at hearing. The Fusion screen is various shades of gray (like a large calculator screen), approximately three by seven inches, and not very bright. Student pointed to the screen’s reflection, stating that the reflection causes the words to move around on the screen.
156. Student claimed that if he needed something printed, he would have to go upstairs. He also stated that he used the Fusion in his English class. Student’s fifth period English teacher, Ms. Takamatsu, maintained a log of Student’s Fusion usage. Between January 19 and March 12, 2010, there were 19 days when Student was present and had an activity for which he could use the Fusion. Student did not use the Fusion once; on two occasions, Ms. Takamatsu asked Student to use the Fusion and he refused. (Similar logs in other classes reported similar results.) Ms. Takamatsu stated that her class has eight desk computers that the students use for their final drafts.
157. Student stated that he did not type very well. If he had a computer at home, he could make use of a typing program, like SpongeBob. He could also use the software that helps him write, apparently referring to the word prediction software. Student testified that if computers were in classrooms, he would not need the Fusion. If he had a computer and the software at home, he would not need the Fusion. Using the classroom computers meant that he did not have to carry the Fusion around. Student’s testimony indicated he would much rather be working with a notebook computer than the Fusion. However, a notebook computer would be substantively heavier than a Fusion. Also, Mr. Cook testified that a computer has other distractions, such as the Internet and social programs, which would be very distracting for Student.
158. At the time of the hearing, Student was not using the Fusion.
159. Student’s grades for the first semester of his junior year were: D in Algebra 1B; D in U.S. History; A in YES Class; B in CAHSEE Prep Math; C in English; and C in Advanced Guitar. Student’s February 2010 Third Quarter Progress Report reported: A in Algebra 1B; A- in U.S. History; A in YES Class; A in CAHSEE Prep Math; A in English; and B in Advanced Guitar.
5. The factual showing required to establish under Rowley that a student has received some educational benefit is not demanding. For a student in a mainstream class, “the attainment of passing grades and regular advancement from grade to grade are generally accepted indicators of satisfactory progress.” (Walczak v. Florida Union Free Sch. Dist., supra, 142 F.3d at p. 130.) A district need not guarantee that a student will make a month’s academic progress in a month’s instruction; a student may benefit even though his progress is far less than one grade level in one school year. (See, e.g., Houston Indep. Sch. Dist. v. Bobby R., supra, 200 F.3d at p. 349 n.3.) A two-month gain in reading in 10 instructional months has been held an adequate showing. (Delaware Valley Sch. Dist. v. Daniel G. (Pa. Cmwlth. 2002) 800 A.2d 989, 993-94.) A student derives benefit under Rowley when he improves in some areas even though he fails to improve in others. (See, e.g., Fort Zumwalt Sch. Dist. v. Clynes (8th Cir. 1997) 119 F.3d 607, 613; Carlisle Area School v. Scott P, supra, 62 F.3d at p. 530.) He may derive benefit while passing in four courses and flunking in two. (Cypress-Fairbanks Indep. Sch. Dist. v. Michael F. (S.D.Tex. 1995) 931 F.Supp. 474, 481.) A showing of progress does not require that a “D student” become a “C student” and thus rise in relation to his peers.
6. Progress may be found even when a student’s scores remain severely depressed in terms of percentile ranking and age equivalence, as long as some progress toward some goals can be shown. (Coale v. Delaware Dept. of Educ. (D.Del. 2001) 162 F.Supp.2d 316, 328.) Whether a student has received more than de minimis benefit must be measured in relation to the student’s potential. (Mrs. B. v. Milford Bd. of Educ. (2d Cir. 1997) 103 F.3d 1114, 1121; Polk v. Central Susquehanna Intermediate Unit 16 (3d Cir. 1988) 853 F.2d 171, 185.) As the Supreme Court has said: It is clear that the benefits obtainable by children at one end of the spectrum will differ dramatically from those obtainable by children at the other end, with infinite variations in between. One child may have little difficulty competing successfully in an academic setting with non-handicapped children while another child may encounter great difficulty in acquiring even the most basic of self-maintenance skills.
9. Student contends that he was denied a FAPE from February 11, 2008, through the filing of his due process hearing request because the District failed to assess him in all areas of suspected disability. District contends that it assessed Student is all areas of suspected disability.
16. Student has met his burden of proof and demonstrated that District failed to provide a FAPE in the 2008-2009 school year. The District did not assess Student in all areas of suspected disability and needed related services, for assistive technology. The failure to conduct an appropriate assessment in AT was a procedural violation which significantly impeded the parents’ opportunity to participate in the decision-making process regarding the provision of a FAPE and caused Student a deprivation of educational benefits. Two factors contributed to this conclusion that a procedural violation occurred in the fall of 2008.
23. Like the previous year, Student has met his burden of proof and demonstrated that District failed to provide a FAPE in the 2009-2010 school year, by failing to assess for AT-related services.
26. Without a comprehensive AT assessment, neither District nor Parent could knowledgeably address Student’s AT needs. District’s AT approach was to decide what Student needed, give it to him, monitor the AT use, and blame him if AT did not help.
28. District was required to conduct a comprehensive AT assessment which would consider whether Student’s ability to utilize the Fusion, or any other AT device, was affected by: a deficiency in fine-motor skills of the arms and hands, decreased strength and stamina, and the effect of dyslexia and a visual processing disorder on Student’s ability to see the AT device screen. The lack of a comprehensive AT-related service, designed for Student’s unique needs, which included his ability to make use of the AT, deprived Student of educational benefit. Therefore, the statutory threshold is met and the failure to fully assess Student for AT-related services is a procedural violation which amounts to the denial of a FAPE since the 2009 annual IEP.
29. In summary, Student has met its burden and demonstrated that District has failed to provide a FAPE for the 2008-2009 and 2009-2010 school years because it failed to assess Student for AT-related services and, thus, failed to assess in all areas of suspected disability (Issues 2a and 3a). Student failed to meet his burden as to the 2007-2008 school year (Issue 1a).
30. Student contends that he was denied a FAPE from February 11, 2008, through the filing of his due process hearing request because at all times his operative IEPs failed to include goals in all areas of need (Issues 1b, 2b, 3b) and because the goals were inappropriate (Issues 1c, 2c, 3c). District contends that it provided appropriate goals in all areas of need.
34. Student did not submit evidence demonstrating an area of need for which District failed to create goals. Similarly, the goals and accompanying objectives and benchmarks, appropriately addressed the areas of need.
41. In summary, Student has failed to meet his burden of establishing that District failed to include goals in all areas of need (Issues 1b, 2b, 3b) and because the goals were inappropriate (Issues 1c, 2c, 3c).
42. Student contends that he was denied a FAPE from February 11, 2008, through the filing of his due process hearing request because at all times his operative IEPs failed to offer sufficient supports in the areas of math (Issues 1d, 2d, 3d), reading (Issues 1e, 2e, 3e), and writing (Issues 1f, 2f, 3f). District contends that it provided Student with sufficient support and services in the areas of math, reading, and writing.
46. In summary, Student has failed to meet his burden of demonstrating that he was denied a FAPE from February 11, 2008, through the filing of his due process hearing request because at all times his operative IEPs failed to offer sufficient supports in the areas of math (Issues 1d, 2d, 3d), reading (Issues 1e, 2e, 3e), and writing (Issues 1f, 2f, 3f).
47. Student contends that he was denied a FAPE from February 11, 2008, through the filing of his due process hearing request because at all times his operative IEPs failed to offer appropriate assistive technology (Issues 1g, 2g, 3g). District contends that it provided Student appropriate assistive technology at all times.
51. In summary, Student has met his burden of demonstrating that District failed to offer appropriate assistive technology for the 2008-2009 and 2009-2010 school years (Issues 2g, 3g) but not for the 2007-2008 school year (Issue 1g).
52. Student contends that he was denied a FAPE from February 11, 2008, through the filing of his due process hearing request because District did not create an appropriate transition plan. (Issues 1h, 2h, 3h). District contends that at all times it provided an appropriate transition plan.
54. Transition services may consist of specially designed instruction or a designated instruction and service. (34 C.F.R. § 300.43(b); Ed. Code, § 56345.1, subd. (b).) Where the transition services are to be provided by outside agencies, the outside participating agencies should be identified, and invited to any IEP meetings where their funding or provision of those services is involved.
59. In summary, the Student has failed to meet his burden of demonstrating he was denied a FAPE from February 11, 2008, through the filing of his due process hearing request, because District did not create an appropriate transition plan. (Issues 1h, 2h, 3h).
60. Student contends that he was denied a FAPE from February 11, 2008, through the filing of his due process hearing request because District did not convene special IEP meetings when Student demonstrated a lack of anticipated progress (Issues 1i, 2i, 3i). District contends that it was not obligated to convene an IEP because Student demonstrated progress toward his goals and objectives.
63. Student contends that the District failed to provide Student with necessary and reasonable accommodations for the 2009-2010 year and, thus, failed to provide a FAPE. This contention has to do with Student’s mobility needs on the newly constructed Eastside campus, which opened to more than 2,300 students in the fall of 2009 and was not an issue until the new campus opened. District contends that it offered necessary and reasonable accommodations to Student, but Parents and Student declined.
65. Student has failed to meet his burden of showing that the District failed to provide necessary and reasonable accommodations related to Student’s mobility on the new Eastside campus, causing a FAPE failure. The Factual Findings carefully review the evidence related to the two mobility concerns: elevator access to the second floor and Student’s ability to move about the larger Eastside campus.
66. The District reasonably declined to provide Student or Parents with keys to an otherwise secured gate or keys to an elevator, which was otherwise not available to the general student body, because of legitimate concerns for safety, liability, and security.
75. Student has failed to meet his burden. The District has provided reasonable accommodations to meet Student’s mobility needs and such accommodations are properly documented in the IEPs.
81. The District failed to provide Student with a FAPE in 2008-2009 and 2009-2010 because District did not provide a comprehensive AT assessment. This failure was a procedural violation which significantly impeded Parents’ opportunity to participate in the decision-making process regarding the provision of a FAPE and caused Student a deprivation of educational benefits. Consequently, without a proper AT assessment, the District failed to provide appropriate and adequate AT-related services.
1. Within 45 days, District shall provide and pay for an independent Assistive Technology assessment of Student.
2. The AT assessment shall specifically address how Student’s visual processing disorder, dyslexia and CMT affect Student’s ability to access proposed AT technology. The AT assessment shall provide specific strategies which would enable Student to utilize the AT to access his curriculum. The AT assessment shall also propose measurable benchmarks which will indicate if Student’s AT is enabling him to access his curriculum. A timely convened IEP team meeting shall meet to consider the AT assessment’s recommendations, strategies, goals and measurable benchmarks.
Education Code section 56507, subdivision (d), requires that this Decision indicate the extent to which each party prevailed on each issue heard and decided in this due process matter. Student prevailed on the issue that District failed to assess in all areas of suspected disability (AT) and failed to provide appropriate AT, resulting in the denial of a FAPE for the 2008-2009 and 2009-2010 school years (Issues 2a, 2g, 3a and 3g). District prevailed on all other issues.

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