- Read last year’s IEP and make notes about things to keep, drop, or revise.
- File any loose reports, evaluations or letters in your advocacy notebook.
- Make a list of all the issues you want to address at the meeting.
- Prioritize each item on your list as negotiable or non-negotiable.
- Write down your top 3 concerns. Make a statement out of each one.Follow each statement up with supporting evidence and a non- threatening question.
- Research anything you feel like you need to know more about. Your goal: to be able to ask good questions during the meeting.
- Complete the “Positive Student Profile” to introduce your child to the team.
- Make copies of anything you want to share with the team.
- If your spouse can’t attend the meeting, invite someone else for support.
- Notify the school if you plan to tape the meeting.
- Review any rights you’re unsure of.
- Reach out to your support network. Talk to other parents, mentors, or advocates.
- Hug your child!
Go into your meeting with confidence knowing that you are the ultimate “expert” on your child!
