|
Audio Article
|
As the school year ends, it’s common for teachers to inform parents that their child may need an Individualized Education Program (IEP) for the upcoming year. If you’re new to this process, you might have many questions, such as:
- What exactly is an IEP?
- What should I bring to the IEP meeting?
- How can the school be sure my child needs an IEP?
The most reassuring thing you can do as a parent is to come fully prepared for the meeting. This will allow you to learn as much as possible about what an IEP entails, and you’ll feel more confident in navigating the process.
Our goal is to help you prepare, so you can make the most of your time at the meeting, ask the right questions, and feel assured in the knowledge you already have. With a clear understanding of the IEP process, you can advocate effectively for your child’s needs and work collaboratively with the school team to create a plan for their success.
1. Request Reports in Advance
Before an IEP review meeting, request relevant reports and assessments in advance. Write or email the school’s special education coordinator to ask for these documents at least several days before the meeting. This written request creates a record of your communication.
Once you have the reports, read them carefully. Highlight or note specific concerns or questions. If needed, contact the assessment authors for clarification. Pay attention to any differences between the reports and your observations of your child at home.
Prepare a list of concerns and questions based on the reports. Consider involving someone from your support network or an advocate who can attend the meeting with you. They can provide another perspective and help ensure all your points are addressed.
2. Review the IEP Document
After reviewing the reports, focus on your child’s Individualized Education Program (IEP). Read it thoroughly, paying special attention to the management needs section, which outlines accommodations and supports for your child.
Identify any unclear language and note areas for clarification. Consider how current accommodations have been working and whether they adequately support your child’s education. Reflect on the IEP goals, assessing if they are appropriate and achievable given your child’s abilities and progress.
By approaching the IEP critically, you can use it as a tool to guide your participation in the meeting. This preparation allows you to effectively advocate for your child’s learning needs and contribute to developing the best possible educational strategy.
3. Prepare Your Own Materials
Gather materials that provide insight into your child’s needs and achievements. Include any external evaluations from private tutors, learning specialists, or therapists who work with your child outside of school.
Compile samples of your child’s work that demonstrate their strengths, interests, and areas of difficulty. These samples can illustrate how your child engages with learning tasks and applies skills in various contexts.
Create a concise list of your main concerns and goals for your child, including both immediate needs and long-term aspirations. Be prepared to articulate these points clearly during the meeting.
These materials form a portfolio that provides a comprehensive view of your child. By presenting this context, you can advocate more effectively and help the IEP team better understand your child’s potential beyond the classroom.
The preparation you invest in understanding and discussing your child’s educational needs is crucial for effective advocacy during the IEP meeting.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is an IEP?
An Individualized Education Program (IEP) is a written plan designed to meet the unique educational needs of a student with disabilities. It outlines specific accommodations, supports, and goals to ensure the child can access and make progress in their education.
How do I prepare for an IEP meeting?
To prepare effectively for an IEP meeting, you should:
Review Reports: Understand the evaluation reports and your child’s progress. If any areas are unclear, make note of them for discussion.
Review the IEP Document: Familiarize yourself with your child’s current IEP, especially the management needs section and the goals. Identify any gaps or areas that need updating.
Gather Materials: Compile relevant information such as work samples, evaluations from private specialists, and a list of your child’s strengths, challenges, and goals.
Prepare Questions & Concerns: Reflect on your child’s current needs and long-term goals. Write down any concerns or suggestions you’d like to discuss at the meeting.
Should I bring someone to the meeting?
Yes, involving someone from your support network or an advocate can be extremely helpful. They can provide a fresh perspective, offer support, and help ensure all your concerns are addressed during the meeting.
What should I focus on when reviewing the IEP?
Focus on the following:
Accommodations and Supports: Are they meeting your child’s needs effectively? Do any changes or additions need to be made?
IEP Goals: Are they realistic, measurable, and appropriate given your child’s abilities and progress?
Language Clarity: Is any of the language vague or unclear? Note areas you want to discuss or clarify.
What materials should I bring to the meeting?
Bring the following to the IEP meeting:
Evaluation Reports: Any formal evaluations, including those from private tutors or specialists.
Work Samples: Examples of your child’s work that show their strengths and challenges.
Notes & Questions: A list of concerns, goals, and anything you want to address or clarify during the meeting.
How do I advocate for my child’s needs?
Effective advocacy involves being prepared, clear, and focused on your child’s needs. Some tips:
Be clear about your concerns and goals for your child.
Present evidence (work samples, evaluations) that support your points.
Be open to collaboration and suggestions but stay firm on key areas where you believe your child needs additional support.
Stay patient and respectful, but ensure all your questions are addressed.
What if I don’t agree with the IEP?
If you don’t agree with the IEP, it’s important to voice your concerns respectfully. You can request further meetings, additional evaluations, or modifications to the plan. Your child’s needs should always be the priority, and the team should be open to adjustments.
How can I ensure that the IEP is being followed?
Monitor your child’s progress and maintain communication with their teachers and support staff. Request regular updates on their progress and attend follow-up meetings if needed to discuss adjustments or revisions.
What if my child’s needs change?
If your child’s needs change, don’t hesitate to request a reevaluation or an IEP review meeting. The IEP should be a living document that can be updated as your child’s educational needs evolve.
- Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), 20 U.S.C. § 1400 (2004)
- U.S. Department of Education. Individualized Education Program (IEP) Guide. Office of Special Education and Rehabilitative Services.
- Wright PW, Wright PD. From Emotions to Advocacy: The Special Education Survival Guide. 2nd ed. Harbor House Law Press; 2006.
