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HomeMy WebLinkAbout10-29-25 Correspondence - Disability Rights Montana - Behind the Scenes of the Case that Transformed Montana High SchoolsFrom:Disability Rights Montana - Growth Rings To:Bozeman Public Comment Subject:[EXTERNAL]Behind the Scenes of the Case that Transformed Montana High Schools Date:Wednesday, October 29, 2025 7:07:35 AM CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organization. Do not click links or open attachments unless you recognize the sender and know the content is safe. Forwarded this email? Subscribe here for more Every paid subscription supports Disability Rights Montana’s work across Montana. Federal funding is nowhere near sufficient to meet the advocacy and culture change work that is needed. You can help fund the future you want to see! Behind the Scenes of the Case that Transformed Montana High Schools.mp4 Watch now Behind the Scenes of the Case thatTransformed Montana High Schools How we got 100,000+ extra years of education to be provided to thenext generation of disabled Montanans! READ IN APP In this episode of Growth Rings, Disability Rights Montana’s David Carlson and Tal Goldin sit down to unpack one of the most transformative disability rights cases in Montana history. Known as the Age 22 Case, this federal lawsuit ensures that students with disabilities on IEPs (Individualized Education Programs) can now remain in public school until age 22 - doubling their access to academic instruction, life skills training, and transition services. Why This Matters Montana was the last state in the nation to deny students with disabilities the right to extended education beyond age 18. This case not only corrected that injustice, it opened the door to thousands of additional school years for students who need more time to learn, grow, and prepare for adulthood. Whether it’s mastering algebra, learning to cook independently, or preparing for a career, this ruling gives students the time and support they deserve. What You’ll Learn in This Video: What the Age 22 Case is and why it matters OCT 29 How the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) supports lifelong learning The difference between a regular diploma and an IEP-based diploma How to reenroll if your child was exited early Why transition planning and life skills education are critical How this case aligns with best practices in habilitation and Medicaid services What to do if your school hasn’t contacted you yet This Video Is For: Students with disabilities, Parents of students with disabilities, Special education teachers and administrators, Disability rights advocates, Legal professionals interested in education law, Anyone who believes in equity, inclusion, and lifelong learning Need Help? If you or your child may be eligible but haven’t received a notice, contact your school principal, district superintendent, or the Montana Office of Public Instruction. Disability Rights Montana also offers support and resources on its website, including an FAQ and sample email templates. Resources Mentioned: Disability Rights Montana FAQ: https://disabilityrightsmt.org/wp- content/uploads/2025/08/age-22-faq.pdf Office of Public Instruction Early Assistance Program: https://opi.mt.gov/Educators/Teaching-Learning/Special-Education/Early- Assistance-Program-EAP Join the Movement This case is more than a legal win, it’s a cultural shift toward valuing every student’s potential. Subscribe to our channel here to get the podcast and our companion Growth Rings newsletter for more stories of advocacy, justice, and disability culture in Montana and beyond. Upgrade to paid Share Help us spread the word and ensure every eligible student gets the education they deserve. Share Growth Rings If this podcast episode gave you ideas about what needs to change in Montana to make it work better for people with disabilities, let us know by filling out this survey. We really want to know what you want us to advocate about next. Tell us what to advocate about next You’re currently a free subscriber to Life Beyond Compliance. Upgrading to paid subscriptions supports Disability Rights Montana’s work across Montana. Federal funding is no where near sufficient to meet the advocacy and culture change work that is needed. You can help fund the future you want to see! Upgrade to paid LIKE COMMENT RESTACK © 2025 Disability Rights Montana1022 Chestnut Street, Helena, MT 59601 What’s next? Unsubscribe