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Parents Should Prep for an IEP Meeting
Published October 27, 2010
If you are the parent of a child with special needs, you already know that a meeting is required at least once a year with school officials to discuss your child’s Individualized Education Program (IEP).
Education is one of the most important things in a child’s life, so it pays to be prepared. What specifically should parents do to prepare?
-Familiarize yourself with the parents’ rights handbook that is provided by the school. Understand the protections under federal law available to you and your child.
-Look over your child’s school records ahead of time. Take note of how he is doing and where his strengths and weaknesses lie.
-Visit the classroom setting if possible.
-Talk with disability associations and other parents for more information and tips.
-Speak with your child ahead of time to learn about any special challenges or concerns.
-Write down any questions you have for school officials so you don’t forget during the give and take of the meeting.
-Review the previous IEP. What is working? What is not? Are there new goals that need to be set or adjusted for the upcoming year?
-If you have concerns, gather evidence to support them. Explain why you want changes.
-Have a positive attitude. An IEP meeting is part of a collaborative process between parents and the school district. Try to work with school officials as much as possible.
-Most of all, organize your thoughts and related documents. Make sure you are prepared when the day of the meeting arrives.
To learn more about New York elder law, New York estate planning, or New York Special Needs visit https://www.littmankrooks.com.
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