2026 CASE Conference

From Innovation to Integration: Building a Legally Sound Framework for AI in Special Education (Room 552 B)

11 Nov 26
1:15 PM - 2:15 PM

Tracks: Legal Issues: Navigating Special Education

Speaker(s): Marlene Phillip-Magee, Director of Special Education, Orange County Public Schools; Lauren Bryant, Program Administrator, Orange County Public Schools

As Artificial Intelligence moves from a novelty to a necessity, Special Education leaders face a critical challenge: How do we leverage AI’s efficiency without compromising FAPE (Free Appropriate Public Education) or FERPA/IDEA data privacy standards? This interactive 60-minute workshop is designed specifically for large-district leaders tasked with scaling AI across complex systems. We will move beyond the "what" of AI and dive into the "how" of legal implementation. Participants will analyze real-world scenarios, from AI-assisted IEP drafting to automated progress monitoring, to identify hidden risk areas like algorithmic bias and "hallucinations" that impact compliance. The session concludes with a blueprint for a scalable, defensible AI governance framework that protects student rights while empowering educators to innovate.