What Should I Do BEFORE My IEP Meeting?

Preparing for an IEP meeting is a very important part of your child’s education. It is a long and difficult process and you should be fully aware of what you are being presented. If you are daunted by the task, make certain you consult an advocate or attorney who understands special education laws. It can be the most important investment in your child’s education.

1. Preparing for the meeting requires that you look at the existing IEP, if one exists, and make certain you understand ALL aspects of it, including the histories, evaluations, learning settings and time allotments, special learning situations and tools provided, and the goals and objectives of the IEP. Take notes on anything you do not understand or with which you do not agree. Are the terms of the IEP being followed to the best of your knowledge? Have you spoken to your child’s teachers about his/her progress and behavior in class?
2. You should examine your child’s progress reports pertaining to his existing IEP. Are they satisfactory to you? What about his report card grades? Again, take notes.
3. This is very important. Prepare a letter to the child study team. In the letter, prepare your concerns from the written notes taken during steps 1 and 2 above. State in the letter that you want these concerns addressed at the meeting. Further, indicate whether or not you want additional evaluations made ( behavioral therapist, psychologist, speech therapist, etc.). Finally, indicate that this letter is a “prior written notice” of those issues, concerns, and evaluation requests.
4. Other than the sign-in sheet, DO NOT SIGN ANYTHING at the meeting. Explain that you want to go home and review everything.

Make certain you review our other blogs:

• What to do during the IEP Meeting
• What to do after the IEP Meeting
• What to do for your child’s first IEP Meeting

Before you sign your IEP, contact an attorney to review your options. You have 15 days to sign the IEP before it goes into effect. The law firm of Susan Clark Law Group is here to assist you with reviewing the IEP. If you are not satisfied with the IEP, you have options. Contact us at 732-637-5248 or email us at susanclarklaw@gmail.com.