The Epic IEP - by Karen Mayer Cunningham (Hardcover)

Book Synopsis

A powerful, practical guide that empowers parents, educators, and advocates to navigate the IEP process with clarity, confidence, and compassion--so every child can thrive.

The Epic IEP is an essential, all-in-one guide for parents, educators, and advocates seeking to navigate the often overwhelming world of special education. Known globally as the Special Education Boss, Karen Mayer Cunningham has dedicated her life to championing the rights of children and families--and now she shares her expertise in this empowering and compassionate resource.

Karen opens the book with her own experience as a mother of a child with special needs, then weaves in the stories of other students and families to illuminate every step of the IEP journey. With warmth and clarity, she unpacks the process from start to finish--cutting through the jargon, explaining legal protections, and offering clear guidance on how to write meaningful goals, advocate for necessary supports, and build student-centered plans.

Inside this book, readers will learn how to:

- Understand evaluation results and special education terminology
- Write effective, measurable goals that support student success
- Identify and implement the right accommodations and modifications
- Navigate legal protections with confidence
- Use action checklists and key questions to stay informed and empowered

The Epic IEP is more than a manual--it's a mission. It equips parents to overcome fear and confusion, helps educators better meet the needs of all learners, and empowers advocates to challenge systemic barriers with clarity and purpose. For anyone who believes every child deserves the chance to learn and thrive, this book is your trusted companion and call to action.

About the Author

Karen Mayer Cunningham is a nationally recognized special education advocate, speaker, and mediator with over two decades of experience guiding families, educators, and professionals through the complexities of special education systems. Known as The Special Education Boss(R), she brings deep expertise in IDEA, Section 504, and disability advocacy, with a clear commitment to ensuring equitable access and meaningful outcomes for students with disabilities.

As the founder of a nationally respected advocacy platform, Karen is widely regarded for her ability to translate complex policies into practical steps that empower parents and improve student support. She has advised on state and local education policy, served on public advisory councils, and is recognized for her leadership in systemic reform.

Karen's work blends legal insight, conflict resolution, and real-world experience to help families and professionals advocate with confidence and clarity. Her signature style is direct, empowering, and rooted in the belief that everyone at the table deserves to be informed and prepared.

Her mission is simple: to protect the educational rights of students and support the adults who serve them.

Through her viral social media presence, with 1 million] followers and 10 million+ views, Karen translates complex education law into plain language and actionable steps. Her mission is clear: to empower parents and professionals to secure the services and support every student deserves.

Whether she's teaching at the IEP table or speaking on national stages, Karen is transforming systems, one child at a time.

"When we get it right for the child, we get it right for everybody."