before, during and after: The Iep process with and without an advocate

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.