It’s back to school time, and for parents of special needs children, that means more than just a new backpack and freshly sharpened pencils.
As part of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) of 1975, the public education system is mandated by federal law to provide a free appropriate education (FAPE) to all students eligible for special education. This is accomplished through use of an individualized education program, otherwise known as the IEP.
The IEP is a legally binding document that serves as the roadmap for your child’s education. It is generally reviewed for efficacy at various points of your child’s educational career, often at the beginning of the new school year.
IEP meetings can sometimes be challenging for both parents and educational staff. With often limited funding for special needs programs, parents and teachers may find themselves unwittingly pitted as adversaries battling over limited resources.
What can you do as a parent to make your IEP review as painless and effective as possible?
1. Be prepared. Know the pros and cons of your child’s current educational plan. Have suggestions for proposed changes rather than simply complaints about what isn’t working. Be proactive in learning about current research and programs.
2. Avoid negativity. Progress is rarely achieved during adversarial meetings. Be positive towards your IEP team as much as possible. They are not usually responsible for budget constraints or program limitations that make getting needed resources difficult. You’re both on the same team and want what is best for your child.
3. Think before you consent. No matter the circumstances, it is sound advice to take the newly proposed IEP home to think it over and make sure you’re fully comfortable with everything outlined. You have the right to refuse consent if you disagree totally, give partial consent to individual items, or add an addendum or supplemental information stating your point of view of services offered and/or denied. You may also seek a private outside evaluation at the cost of the school district if you disagree with the conclusions reached by your IEP team.
4. Finally, although keeping a positive relationship with your IEP team is beneficial to all if it can be maintained, know your rights and never settle for less than what your child is entitled. Above all else, remember you are your child’s best advocate.