Jan E. Tomsky

Nationally recognized for her expertise in special education law, Jan Tomsky draws on her seen-it-all experience, deep well of knowledge and steadfast commitment to her clients to advise them on the most difficult circumstances and achieve the best outcomes possible. Jan represents school districts in mediations, due process hearings and litigation in state and federal courts and the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals. Bringing a rare combination of persuasion and finesse, she advocates for clients in disputes that often involve the most sensitive issues.

Clients turn to Jan for help in defending their decisions on appeal to county boards and in court, primarily because of her history of success and ability to cultivate and maintain relationships with all parties involved in a dispute.

Jan counsels clients on such student-related issues as cyber misconduct, social media, technology and many other matters. In addition, she is certified as a trainer of trainers in Interest-Based Bargaining. Jan has also earned a highly regarded reputation for designing and delivering workshops for individual districts, which are specifically tailored to address their needs.

Frequently invited to present at public speaking engagements by prestigious education organizations throughout the country, Jan uses her gifted and natural presentation skills to captivate, inform and entertain audiences. Her speeches are always very well-received. At one recent conference, for example, audience members provided written feedback for her presentation, which was rated as “Excellent” according to the organization’s metrics. “Jan was amazing. The information she shared was valuable and applicable,” wrote one attendee. Another audience member described her speech as “incredibly done. Great analysis, humor and timing from a great speaker.” And yet another said, “Outstanding presentation with up-to-date case law.”

A strong writer, Jan is the author or co-author of publications that are considered essential to special education professionals. They include Personal Liability for IDEA Violations: Where the Courts Stand; The Administrator’s Guide to Building and Maintaining a Comprehensive Autism Program; and IDEA Due Process Survival Guide: A Step-by-step Companion for Administrators and Attorneys.