• 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!

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