Brian H. Leinhauser and Nicole C. Freiler presented at the Making a Difference in Charter Schools Conference held by the Pennsylvania Coalition of Public Charter Schools on October 7, 2016. Mr. Leinhauser and Ms. Freiler provided a seminar entitled “Tips and Tools for Effective School Leadership” where attendees learned methods for ensuring that their school leadership team is as effective and proactive as possible, provides effective oversight of school operations that will help to improve student success and avoid costly litigation and how to comply with federal and state laws, including the Charter School Law, the Rehabilitation Act, and the Individuals with Disabilities Education Improvement Act.
Mr. Leinhauser and Ms. Freiler also presented an overview session on “Navigating the Office of Civil Rights Inquiries and Title IX Issues” geared toward school leadership and how schools can effectively navigate the ever-expanding requirements of Title IX and how to avoid conflict with the Office of Civil Rights. Topics discussed included compliance with the recent directives regarding the use of bathroom and locker room facilities by transgender students, as well as ensuring that services are being appropriately provided to students based on their individual needs and avoiding allegations of discriminatory practices.