Preparing for your child's IEP meeting: How to get started & what to expect

If you're new to the IEP & ARD process, here are some common acronyms that get thrown around a lot:

IEP=Individualized Education Plan

• This is the customized education plan that is put together every year for YOUR student. YOU and several other key educators work together to develop this document each year. Think of it as a legally binding contract that you get to help write (because that's exactly what it is). Once it's written and looks great for the upcoming year, everybody signs and it turns into a legitimate legally binding agreement about what the school district will do/provide to ensure that YOUR student receives a Free and Appropriate Education (FAPE).

ARD=Admission, Review, Dismissal

• This is the the actual meeting that takes place to develop the IEP. In Texas, we call it an "ARD meeting", but other states call it an "IEP meeting". Either way, it's the same thing.

PLAAFP=Present Levels of Academic Achievement & Functional Performance

• This is part of the IEP & is used to determine what goals, accommodations, services, etc. your student receives. Think of it as a summary of how the student is doing academically & functionally. The things that are inside of your student's PLAAFP should change each year because they should be progressing through the school year with success.

No matter what your state calls it, the annual meeting to discuss the IEP of your student is intended to serve the same purpose: to develop an individualized plan so that your student with a disability can access the school environment appropriately. Understanding how to prepare for this meeting and what to expect can provide families with the confidence they need to ensure their child's needs are effectively addressed.

What is an ARD/IEP meeting?

The ARD meeting is a collaborative process designed to create or review an IEP for a student with an identified disability. It's important to note that a medical diagnosis is not the same thing as an eligibility within the school setting. We can talk more about that later, but just remember that there's a difference. During the ARD/IEP meeting, there is typically one goal: to review how YOUR student has done, to review what YOUR student needs in order to be successful, to discuss YOUR students academic, behavioral & functional progress, set new goals to work towards, review any evaluations and identify the necessary services and supports.

Familiarizing yourself with the IEP process before you walk into the meeting is one of the most advantages you (as a parent/guardian/caregiver) can have before walking in.

Preparing for the Meeting

Preparation is key to a successful ARD meeting. Here are some actionable steps families can take BEFORE the meeting:

1. Gather documentation: Collect relevant documents, such as previous IEPs, report cards, assessments, and notes from teachers. If things don't make sense, make a note to ask for clarification.

   
   

2. Write down your concerns: Make a clear list of any concerns or questions regarding your child's education. This could include topics like their reading comprehension levels, social interactions, or behavioral challenges. Documenting these points helps you stay organized and focused.

   
   

3. Set goals for the meeting: Reflect on what you want to achieve from the meeting. Whether you aim to secure specific services or want better clarity on your child’s academic progress, clear goals will drive the conversation.

   
   

4. Provide input

Know this: Parents have a right (and a responsibility) to contribute to the development of your students IEP. You are not a passive participant in this process. Your voice has value and meaning and should be involved in this conversation.

What to Expect During the Meeting

Knowing what to expect DURING the meeting can help ease your nerves. Typically & broadly, here’s how an ARD meeting unfolds:

1. Introductions: The meeting starts with everyone introducing themselves. Each participant will state their role and relationship to your child, fostering an atmosphere of collaboration. Each person should know your student, not just know "of" your student.

   
   

2. Review of current performance: The team discusses your child's current performance, including strengths and areas needing improvement. You should have also had the opportunity to provide academic feedback and share any concerns prior to this point.

   
   

3. Setting goals: The team collaboratively sets clear, data-driven & attainable new goals for your child. Your input here matters A LOT. These goals are specific things that will be addressed, so make sure that they reflect any areas of concern you have as well.

   
   

4. Discussing services and supports: The team determines the necessary services to facilitate your child’s success. This might include interventions like in class support, pull out sessions, therapies, etc.

   
   

5. Finalizing the IEP: After thorough discussion, the team finalizes the IEP. Parents receive a copy detailing the agreed-upon goals, supports, and services, allowing them to stay informed about their child’s plan. You do NOT have to sign the IEP at the ARD meeting. If something feels off or rushed or out of place, it is appropriate and acceptable to ask for a draft copy of the IEP that has been put together so that you can review it within a designated time before signing it yourself. It is not "completed" until your signature is obtained.

   
   

After the Meeting

AFTER everything is wrapped up and signed and in place, here are some steps to consider:

1. Review the IEP: Go through the finalized IEP carefully. Ensure all agreed-upon services and goals are correctly documented.

   
   

2. Communicate with teachers: Reach out to your child's case manager and teachers to discuss implementing the IEP in the classroom. Having regular communication will ensure that everyone remains focused on your child’s goals. This is a great time to "reset" and ensure that everyone understands the IEP in the same way.

   
   

3. Monitor progress: Keep track of your child's progress throughout the year. Make it a habit to check in with teachers and specialists frequently, ensuring that the IEP is being followed and that your child is progressing toward their goals. You will receive IEP progress reports (think of this as a "report card" of your student's IEP goals) throughout the year.

   
   

4. Stay involved: Make it a point to attend any follow-up meetings or check-ins. Your active participation in and monitoring of your child's education will be critical for effective advocacy.

   
   

Preparing for an ARD/IEP meeting can feel overwhelming, but with the right preparation and understanding, families can approach this process with assurance. By gathering documentation, setting clear goals, and actively participating in discussions, parents can help ensure that their child’s educational needs are met effectively.

If you're ready to jump in and take the bull by the horns (as we say here in Texas) this resource will help you get yourself all kinds of organized so that you're a step ahead at your next meeting!

(click image to download ⬇️ )

Remember, you are your child’s best advocate. Your involvement is crucial to their success and well-being. By engaging with the IEP process actively, families can create a supportive educational environment that fosters their child's growth and development.