WHAT TO DO BEFORE THE MEETING

With An Advocate

• Review Your IEP Goals
• A brief phone call or consultation to ensure you’re on the same page.
• Make sure your advocate has updated information and reports or evaluations.

Without An Advocate

• Review your rights to better understand the IEP process.
• Consider joining a reputable group online if you have questions.
• Organize your documents in a large binder or accordion folder.
• Jot down your concerns and what you would like to address in the meeting along with IEP goals.
• If it’s an eligibility meeting where evaluations will be reviewed, remember to request a copy of the report ahead of time.
• Talk to your child about what they enjoy about school and what is challenging for them.

WHAT TO DO DURING THE MEETING

With An Advocate

• Expect your advocate to facilitate a productive and collaborative meeting.
• Partake in the conversation – provide suggestions, answer questions, and voice your goals.
• Ask your advocate to review anything you are unsure of and don’t be afraid to step out for a private chat.
• Review the draft with your advocate.

Without An Advocate

• Make sure the appropriate team members are present.
• Write down questions as they come and check them off as you address each item.
• Request to review the document before finalizing.
• If you don’t agree with something, make sure to say so.

WHAT TO DO AFTER THE MEETING

With An Advocate

• Touch base with your advocate to debrief.
• Jot down any items to follow-up on and let your advocate know if you will be continuing to use their services.
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Without An Advocate

• Process the meeting and give yourself a few hours before jotting down your notes.
• Follow-up via email for anything that was agreed upon.