Objectives

After completing this course, students will:

  • Correctly Define "IDEA"

  • Understand the assessment process: MTSS (tiered supports, Assessments, IEP’s and FAPE.

  • Articulate the purpose of an FBA in educational settings.

  • Understand the role of the Behavior Analyst on a Multidisciplinary team.

  • Understand why legal defensibility matters (e.g., compliance with IDEA, district policies, and ethical standards).

Course curriculum

  • 1

    Welcome!

    • Welcome!

    • Course Downloads: Legally Defensible: Interpreting Ed Code for BCBAs

    • Video #1: Welcome to Legally Defensible

    • Video #2: Assessments & Parental Rights

    • Video #3: MTSS Tiered Supports

    • Video #4: Best Practices for Defensible FBA

    • Video #5: Conclusion and Key Takeaways

  • 2

    Last steps

    • ASR: Quiz - Please answer these questions

    • Confirmation of Student Profile Information for CEUs Certificate

    • Completion Survey

Legally Defensible: Interpreting Ed Code for BCBAs (1.0 CEUs)

This course explores the legal, ethical, and procedural requirements for conducting a legally defensible Functional Behavior Assessment (FBA) under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA).

The course, "Legally Defensible FBA: Interpreting Ed Code for BCBAs," provides an in-depth examination of the legal framework surrounding Functional Behavior Assessments (FBAs) in educational settings. It highlights the importance of compliance with the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), ensuring that assessments are comprehensive, individualized, and adhere to procedural safeguards. The course covers the role of Behavior Analysts in conducting FBAs, contributing to Individualized Education Programs (IEPs), and collaborating with multidisciplinary teams to develop effective behavior intervention plans (BIPs). Participants will explore best practices for conducting assessments, including obtaining informed consent, using multiple sources of data, and addressing all areas of suspected disability to prevent procedural denials of Free Appropriate Public Education (FAPE). Emphasis is placed on understanding parental rights, responding to challenges through Independent Educational Evaluations (IEEs), and ensuring that assessment findings translate into appropriate educational services. The course prepares behavior analysts to navigate complex legal and ethical scenarios, ensuring that FBAs meet both regulatory and professional standards.

Course Presenters

Dana Crucil MA BCBA

With over 14 years of experience in autism services, including 11 years as a Board-Certified Behavior Analyst, Dana has led impactful programs across school districts, private agencies, and national organizations. She was instrumental in building a grassroots behavior program across six California school sites, creating consistency in service delivery and staff development. Her expertise includes conducting Functional Behavior Assessments (FBAs) in compliance with IDEA, developing assessment protocols, and leading multidisciplinary training initiatives. Drawing from a deeply personal connection growing up alongside her autistic sister, Dana brings compassion and lived experience to her work. She has served as a Senior Care Manager coordinating ABA services nationwide and as a program developer for a national charter school, ensuring students with IEPs receive high-quality, ethical support. As an ambassador for The Autism Community in Action (TACA), she guides families through complex systems of care. In addition, Dana is a Co-Instructor training future professionals in special education and applied behavior analysis at Arizona State University. Her work is rooted in collaboration, bridging the gap between clinical care, education, and family advocacy. Across every setting, her mission remains the same: to champion equitable, individualized services for individuals with autism and their families.

Reviews

5 star rating

Takeaways from the CEU course: How to Use AI as a BCBA to Enhance Productivity

This was the first CEU course I participated with Cite Pro. Shira Pressburger, BCBA LBA presented the information in a clear and organized manner. I am looking forward to using ChatGPT to enhance my ideas and creativity while treatment planning as...

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This was the first CEU course I participated with Cite Pro. Shira Pressburger, BCBA LBA presented the information in a clear and organized manner. I am looking forward to using ChatGPT to enhance my ideas and creativity while treatment planning as well as report writing. I'm most excited about the bonus graphics lesson included here to enhance the visuals I create for my clients.

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Brocha Klahr

5 star rating

Informative and eye opening

Lyndsey Binns

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