Tuesday, November 3, 2009

IEP meeting tips for parents

My name is Nelva Hunter Walker. I am a program specialist in Birmingham City Schools. I have had this wonderful job since April, 2004. One of my job duties is to keep lines of communication open between the parent and school. The open line of communication will help to avoid litigation. If the IEP is written cooperatively between the parent and school, usually the child will have a super year.

Parents are often intriqued with the special education process. Here are a few tips to assist you in having a successful IEP meeting:

1. Keep in mind that the IEP is a movable document. The IEP will travel with you to a new school or community.
2. Provide written input to the teacher at least a day in advance.
3. Include technology, homework and grading in the IEP. Often times if grading is not included in the IEP, the general educator may have problems grading your child on what he/she can actually do.
4.Please attend IEP meetings. These meetings strengthens the relationship between the parent and school. Read the profile to ensure accuracy. Strengths and weaknesses may be addressed in the IEP. Your attendance speaks volumes to the teacher and school at large.

1 comment:

  1. Hi, Nelva! I am so excited about your blog. We will truly being able to communicate in new and fun ways.

    ReplyDelete