What to expect at a meeting to create an Individual Education Plan.
It’s that time of year again- time for the annual review of the IEP. Unfortunately, many of those involved anticipate this facet of the special education process with trepidation. The teachers are anxious to get all of the paperwork done correctly, the parents feel overwhelmed by the data and terminology, and the student is nervous about what his parents and teachers might say about him. This does not have to be the norm! Stop the unease by using the following guide to know what to expect at the next IEP meeting.
Before the Meeting
All involved must review the student’s academic and behavioral year. Each must reflect on the progress that was made and the challenges that were faced. List the aspects of last year’s IEP that worked well and those that may not have been as successful. Write down any concerns about the next school year. Think about the strengths and weaknesses of the student and consider how these features will impact life after high school.
The Invitation
A formal written invitation to the IEP meeting will be issued outlining the date, time and place for the meeting as well as who has been invited. If the timing of the meeting is not workable for all the meeting will be rescheduled. Take note of the participants; if anyone has concerns that need to be addressed with someone who has not been invited now is the time to add others to the list.
What to Bring
The school personnel will need to bring a draft of the IEP along with any relevant assessments and observations. The parents or guardians and student should bring a written list of any items they would like to address.
The Meeting
The meeting will be conducted by the teacher or special education coordinator responsible for the student. The past year will be reviewed and next year will be outlined. Specific objectives and how they will be monitored will be written into the IEP. Any modifications or accommodations the student will need to be successful in the regular curriculum will also be included. Everyone will be able to ask questions, share concerns and remark on successes of the past year. Plans for how the student will be prepared for life after graduation will be enumerated based on the age of the student.
Afterward
Each individual education plan is a working document. That means that as the next year progresses it should be updated and modified to take into account any changes or challenges that come up. Anyone can call a new IEP meeting to discuss amending any part of it. The school will notify the parents/guardians and the student of the progress being made toward the objectives throughout the year.
Just as all individual education plans are different and tailored to the needs of the student so are all IEP meetings. Use this guide as a foundation to prepare yourself. Think about your specific concerns and ideas and share them at the meeting regardless of your role. Ask questions until you feel you completely understand what the other participants are saying. The student is better served when all partakers are prepared and involved.
