A local Las Vegas law firm, IEP Defenders, is working to ensure that special education students in the Las Vegas Valley receive the educational support they are entitled to under federal law. The firm provides services at no cost to families, helping students access the Individualized Education Plans (IEPs) they need.
According to the Clark County School District (CCSD), 40,809 special education students are enrolled in the 2023-24 school year, making up about 13% of the district’s total student body. IEP Defenders is fully dedicated to addressing the needs of these students.
“Our goal is to help children turn their weaknesses into strengths,” said Sam Castor, the founder of IEP Defenders. The firm has assisted around 70 students since its inception nine months ago, addressing issues such as schools failing to implement IEPs or neglecting the needs of students with disabilities altogether.
A former special education teacher and administrator in CCSD, who wished to remain anonymous, pointed out the district’s challenges. “There aren’t enough special education teachers, and many positions are filled by long-term substitutes who lack the necessary training,” she said. This shortage directly affects the quality of education for special needs students, creating significant barriers to their success.
To address these challenges, CCSD has implemented several initiatives to increase the number of special education teachers. These include offering an additional $5,000 in pay for licensed special education positions, hiring through alternative routes to licensure, and rehiring retired employees under the Critical Labor Shortage Designation.
IEP Defenders continues to grow, with Castor emphasizing the firm’s mission to break down barriers for students with disabilities. “If you’re a parent of a special needs child, don’t wait—reach out to us. Our services are free, and we’re committed to finding quick solutions,” Castor said.
