Before the IEP
It is important to effectively prepare for your child’s IEP meeting. Discover how to gather important information, review relevant documents, and collaborate with educators and professionals. Explore resources to assist you in organizing your questions and concerns to ensure a productive IEP meeting that supports your child’s educational needs.
Resources
Preparing thoroughly before your child’s IEP (Individualized Education Program) meeting can help ensure that the meeting is productive and focused on creating the best plan for your child. Here’s how to prepare:
- Review Current IEP: If your child already has an IEP, review it carefully. Take note of what goals have been set, what accommodations and services are currently in place, and how well these have been met.
- Gather Documentation: Collect relevant documents, including recent evaluations, progress reports, and any other assessments. Bring any medical records or outside evaluations that might be relevant to your child’s needs.
- Observe Your Child: Reflect on your child’s recent progress, strengths, and areas of concern. Take notes on their academic performance, social interactions, behavior, and any changes you’ve noticed.
- Set Goals and Concerns: Identify your key goals for the meeting and any specific concerns you want to address. Think about what you hope to achieve and how you would like to see your child’s needs addressed in the IEP.
- Review the IEP Process: Familiarize yourself with the IEP process and terminology. Understanding the purpose of each section of the IEP can help you better advocate for your child.
- Draft Questions: Prepare a list of questions you want to ask during the meeting. These might include inquiries about specific services, accommodations, or how progress will be measured.
- Communicate with the School: Reach out to the school to confirm the meeting time, location, and participants. Ensure that all necessary team members, such as special education teachers and therapists, will be present.
- Consider Your Child’s Perspective: If appropriate, discuss the upcoming meeting with your child and gather their input on their preferences or concerns. This can provide additional insights into their needs and goals.
- Plan for Follow-Up: Think about how you will follow up after the meeting. Plan to review the final IEP document and stay in touch with the school to monitor the implementation of the plan.
By taking these steps, you’ll be well-prepared to actively participate in the IEP meeting and contribute effectively to developing a plan that supports your child’s educational success.