About this webinar:
Even prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, Pennsylvania had developed effective virtual hearings as part of its special education due process system. Using common videoconference platforms, such as Zoom and GoToMeeting, hearing officers experienced in convening and presiding over virtual hearing sessions will provide an overview of the entire virtual hearing process, including technology needs, exhibits, witnesses, examinations, the court reporter, and managing the hearing. Hearing Officers McElligott and Skidmore designed and piloted the use of virtual hearings in Pennsylvania, which have been utilized since 2015.
About the Presenters:
Jake McElligott, Esq., has been a full-time hearing officer in Pennsylvania for 12 years. He has been involved in special education dispute resolution, as a hearing officer and an appellate officer for over 25 years, and is a trained special education mediator. Hearing Officer McElligott has taught English and social studies in public and private high schools, and teaches university classes in school law. He has published book chapters in school law and school counseling.
Cathy Skidmore, Esq., has been a full-time hearing officer in Pennsylvania for 11 years. She has been active in the field of special education dispute resolution in Pennsylvania for over 25 years, currently as a hearing officer and previously as an appellate officer. She has also had training in basic and special education mediation and had served as a mediator in Pennsylvania. Hearing Officer Skidmore has degrees and experience in special and elementary education, was formerly engaged in private law practice, and taught as an adjunct university professor in special education.