10 Things Parents of Children with IEPs Should Know Before a New School Year
Top 10 Tips for Parents of Children with IEPs Before a New School Year
The start of a new school year can be both exciting and challenging, especially for parents of children with Individualized Education Programs (IEPs). Preparation and proactive communication are key to ensuring your child receives the support they need. Here are ten crucial things parents should know and do before the new school year begins.
1. Review the IEP Document
Why It’s Important
Ensures that the goals and services outlined in the IEP are still relevant to your child's needs.
Helps you identify any areas that may need updating or adjustments.
Action Steps
Carefully read through the IEP.
Note any changes in your child’s needs or abilities over the summer.
Prepare to discuss any necessary updates with the IEP team.
2. Meet with the IEP Team
Why It’s Important
Establishes communication and sets expectations for the new school year.
Allows for addressing any concerns or questions you might have.
Action Steps
Schedule a meeting with the IEP team early in the school year.
Discuss your child’s progress and any changes needed in the IEP.
Ensure all team members, including new teachers, are familiar with the IEP.
3. Understand Your Child’s Rights
Why It’s Important
Empowers you to advocate effectively for your child’s education.
Ensures your child receives the services and accommodations they are entitled to under the law.
Action Steps
Familiarize yourself with the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act.
Know your child’s rights to Free Appropriate Public Education (FAPE).
4. Organize Important Documents
Why It’s Important
Keeps all necessary information readily accessible for meetings and emergencies.
Helps track your child’s progress and any communications with the school.
Action Steps
Create a binder or digital folder with your child’s IEP, evaluations, progress reports, and correspondence.
Include contact information for IEP team members.
5. Prepare Your Child
Why It’s Important
Helps ease anxiety and sets a positive tone for the new school year.
Ensures your child understands their IEP and how it helps them.
Action Steps
Discuss the upcoming school year and any changes to their routine or support services.
Encourage self-advocacy by explaining how they can ask for help.
6. Communicate with Teachers
Why It’s Important
Builds a collaborative relationship with those directly involved in your child’s education.
Ensures teachers are aware of and understand the accommodations and supports in the IEP.
Action Steps
Introduce yourself to your child’s teachers before school starts.
Share key information from the IEP and discuss any specific needs or strategies that work well for your child.
7. Monitor Progress Regularly
Why It’s Important
Ensures your child is making progress toward their IEP goals.
Allows for timely interventions if your child is not progressing as expected.
Action Steps
Request regular updates and progress reports from teachers.
Attend all scheduled IEP meetings and ask for additional meetings if necessary.
8. Understand the Role of Each IEP Team Member
Why It’s Important
Clarifies who is responsible for implementing different parts of the IEP.
Ensures accountability and better coordination among team members.
Action Steps
Learn the roles and responsibilities of each IEP team member.
Maintain open communication with all team members, including special education teachers, general education teachers, and support staff.
9. Stay Informed About School Policies
Why It’s Important
Ensures that your child’s IEP is implemented in accordance with school policies.
Helps you understand the broader context of your child’s education environment.
Action Steps
Review the school’s handbook and policies related to special education.
Attend school board meetings or follow updates from the school district.
10. Seek Support and Resources
Why It’s Important
Provides you with additional tools and support to advocate for your child.
Connects you with other parents and professionals who can offer advice and assistance.
Action Steps
Join local or online support groups for parents of children with special needs.
Utilize resources from organizations like the National Center for Learning Disabilities (NCLD) or the Council of Parent Attorneys and Advocates (COPAA).
EducationLawyers.com
Preparing for a new school year involves careful planning and proactive communication, especially for parents of children with IEPs. By understanding your child’s rights, organizing important documents, and maintaining open communication with the IEP team, you can help ensure a successful and supportive educational experience for your child.