Planning for your IEP

IEP's for many of us are anxiety building and not an experience that we feel that we have much say in. With standardized goals that are computer generated can make parents feel like making a change to those goals are impossible. However that is not the case. Handwritten changes to the proposed IEP Goals hold the same importance as the type written ones- So here are some tips for getting your IEP Homework done before your meeting...

1. Ask your child's teacher what assessments are being done?
Did you sign a release for those assessments? Do you disagree- you can ask for an independant assessment at public expense. Make sure to request this in writing. A new law says that parents must consent to any assessments being done.

2. Ask for the Evaluation Reports at least One Week prior to the IEP Meeting.
Make sure to review them so that you are prepared to discuss and plan for the meeting. This will help you: a. identify goals for the meeting; b. review accomplishments of the last year; c. identify what you hope your child will learn in the next year; d. identify specific difficulties or strengths to bring to schools attention; e. if you want full inclusion or increased integration identify how and in what settings your child already interacts with children who do not have disabilities; and f. list any successful experiences or strategies that have been used out of school.

3. Review your feeling and desires regarding Inclusion:
The law says that to the maximum extent appropriate, as decided by the IEP Team (you are full equal member) children with disabilities shall be educated in their neighborhood schools and attend regular classes with supplemental aids and services. Today, many researchers and parents believe all children with disabilities can and should be fully included in regular classrooms.

4. Make a List of the points that you want to raise at the IEP Meeting.
Many parents get nervous or distracted at a meeting with several professionals. Thus it is good to make a list of points and questions in advance so that you dont forget. You can check off points are they are discussed and jot down answers to the questions.

5. You can bring anyone you feel is important as long as they have "knowledge or special expertise regarding the child".
These people have knowledge that will be helpful in developing a good IEP. They can be a day-care provider, grandparent, tutor, behavior specialist, or anyone you feel is important.

6. Discussion of Present Levels of Performance
Present informal and formal observations based on your experience. These are things that you can list on the IEP. Remember that this document will be shared with next years teacher and it is important that they know skills your child has and does not show until they are comfortable.

7. Decide on 2 annual goals for your child.
Writing goals is difficult. Think about what you want your child to be able to do by the end of the school year. Make sure that your goals can be taught in the classroom that the parent feels is most appropriate for their child. For example, if you want your child to have greater inclusion or full inclusion, then you should request goals that including interaction with non-disabled students, e.g. "Molly will learn to take turns by playing a game with non-disabled peers."

8. Make a list of supports that they think your child needs.
The district must provide supplementary aids and services to accommodate the special education needs of students with disabilities in integrated settings including (for example) a trained aide, use of a tape recorder or assistive device, an inclusion specialist to help the regular education teacher modify curriculum or a behavioral plan to address the need for behavioral supports. Look at the list of accommodations currently provided and brainstorm what others might be appropriate if needed.

9. Make a list of services that you want for your child and why you want them.
All related serives and related service providers, such as Speech Therapy (SLP) should be identified including frequency and duration. The parameters of the placement should be clearly stated. Parents do not have the right to require the district to provide services from a particular person in a particular classroom. However it does not hurt to ask to be included in the decision on who will be working with your child. Specific placement options should be discussed at the IEP meeting.

10. Your signature on the document
The absence of your signature on the IEP does not necessarily preclude the school district from moving forward with your child's IEP. However, pare tn do not need to sign the IEP at the meeting- you can take it home to discuss with others and think about it. Parents can consent to only part of the IEP so those services the parent agrees with can begin. Know that you can withdrawal your consent by writing to the special education administrator. If you and the district disagree on services, the last IEP remains in effect while a due process hearing is held.

11. Progress Reports
Regular progress reports are required but you can help decide what they look like. Think about what type of communication you are looking for and why. This makes it easier for the plan for reports to go from one teacher to the next.

These tips should help you feel prepared for your IEP Meeting. Remember you are your child's best and consistent advocate and your ideas and suggestions hold as much weight as the "professionals"!

Good Luck!