Please Tell Me That You Walk on Water

This could be the entreaty of those parents who have the distinct feeling that, at the IEP table, their comments are magically heard by team members only in a foreign language. Another common perception is that all comments by parents will be met with rolling eyes, sighs, and harumphs if not another adjustment in the team member seats and a chorus of clearing throats.

While this may be an exaggeration, if you are a parent feeling this way, something...

WHO DEVELOPS THE IEP?

The IEP is developed by a team. This team includes school personnel and the child’s parents and as appropriate the child. This team meets AS OFTEN AS NECESSARY, but at least once a year.

Parents and Child

• the parents of the child with a disability are vital members of the IEP team
• they are their child’s best advocates and have significant expertise that no one else has
• Be prepared for the IEP meeting or your child will not get what they need.
• Review the IEP...

 WRITE THE IEP RIGHT THE FIRST  TIME

The IEP is the child's individualized plan to attain functional goals. It makes no difference if we are looking at reading, social competence, or anyone or combination of needs, if they are not addressed in the IEP there will be no focus on them. Most parents and advocates are not taught how to do the IEP right the first time around. So let us start with a clear understanding of what the IEP is, its function and its purpose..

• IEP stands for...