| Preparing
for the IEP
It is important to stay involved in your child’s education and
to communicate with the professionals that provide services to your
child. You are your child’s best advocate because you know your
child better than anyone, and you are the most important member of
the team. It is important to keep records, keep track of all meetings,
appointments, services, and copies of your child’s IEP.
Prior to the IEP meeting, parents should:
1. carefully review their child's school records
2. carefully review all evaluations conducted on their child
3. determine who will be attending the IEP meeting on behalf of the education
department
4. make a list of the child's strengths, weaknesses, needs --- including
the type of environment the child will require, the communication mode the
child should use, and the services necessary to help their child learn
5. identify realistic goals for the child to achieve during the school year
and prioritize those goals in order of importance
6. consider who they wish to bring with them to the meeting (such as an advocate
or attorney, educational or other experts) and invite them to the meeting
7. prepare written notes to bring to the meeting that address their concerns,
opinions, and expectations for their child and the delivery of educational
and related services to their child
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