Loving your IEP Experience

It may sound weird but I truly love our IEP experience.  It wasn't always that way, in fact it was quite the opposite.  I would be knotted up with anxiety and anger and go in expecting the absolute worst.  But now, even when there are disagreements I love the meetings and the process.  

What changed?  

First my attitude.  It took a lot of effort to go in expecting collaboration and desirable outcome.  

Second my communication.  I learned to talk directly to the teachers when I had questions or concerns rather than wait for a scheduled meeting or going to administration.  

Third I learned to ask for "special treatment"...for instance my son's school procedure was to tell you your classroom assignment on meet the teacher day which was the day before the first day of school.  I respectfully sent an email to the principal and VP explaining that my son had an IEP and I'd love to pass along my information to his teacher and if she is available to meet before meet the teacher (when no one actually gets to have an in-depth conversation) to discuss some extra accommodations to be made for the first day of school.  Every year I ask for this and every year I've gotten it.  If there is a time when the teacher is unable to meet I would happily exchange emails.  

Fourth I am not surprised at the IEP meeting.  Nothing to be anxious of if you know what's happening.  Ask for a draft of the IEP...I like to specifically ask for proposed changes to the current IEP because it can be easier.  When I ask for a draft I include my proposed changes and my parent input statement. 

I'm not saying these steps will create a perfect IEP, but it will help you become a more active member.  Being involved in the IEP and keeping well informed are keys to advocating for your child and to learning to love the experience.


 

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