Ah, the IEP meeting—a glorious mix of bureaucratic jargon, emotional speeches, and coffee that tastes like despair. But fear not, brave parent! With the right prep and this snarky-yet-helpful checklist, you’ll walk in ready to advocate like the fierce, organized legend you are.
The Ultimate Checklist: IEP Meeting Must-Haves
The IEP Draft: Why start with this? Because without it, you’ll be fumbling like a kid at their first debate. Review it beforehand and mark it up with notes, questions, and your patented “What even is this?!” doodles.
Your Child’s Recent Evaluations: Bring copies of psychological, educational, or speech evaluations. These are your receipts to back up why your child needs specific supports.
Progress Reports: Compare the school's glowing reports with what’s actually happening at home (spoiler: they rarely match).
Your Concerns and Goals: Write down your top priorities for the meeting. What does your child need to thrive? Clear goals help you stay focused when the jargon starts flying.
Documentation of Past Communication: Got emails or notes from teachers that show recurring issues? Bring them. Nothing says “receipts” like, well, actual receipts.
A Copy of the Law: Because nothing makes a school squirm like a parent quoting IDEA (Individuals with Disabilities Education Act) verbatim.
Support Person or Advocate: Sometimes, you need backup. A friend, family member, or professional advocate can help you stay grounded—and take notes when your brain turns to mush.
List of Accommodations: Have a wishlist of what your child needs: noise-canceling headphones, movement breaks, or a fidget-friendly classroom setup.
Notebook or Laptop: Jot down everything. Bonus points for using a laptop—nothing says “I’m prepared” like typing furiously during a meeting.
Snacks and Water: Yes, this is war, and warriors need fuel. Just keep it professional—no loud wrappers or stinky tuna sandwiches.
What Not to Bring
Your Temper: Yes, it’s frustrating. No, yelling won’t help. Practice a cool, calm, “Let me clarify that point...” tone.
Unrealistic Expectations: The IEP is about support, not perfection. Aim for progress, not miracles.
Your Entire Filing Cabinet: Stick to relevant documents. No one has time to sift through every math test from second grade.
How to Use This Checklist
Prep a Folder: Keep all your documents neatly organized. Bonus points for tabs labeled “Evaluations,” “IEP Draft,” and “Evidence That I’m Right.”
Rehearse: Practice summarizing your concerns and goals. Yes, talking to your mirror counts.
Breathe: You’ve got this. If all else fails, remember you’re the expert on your child.
If you need support preparing for an IEP meeting or advocating for your child, call or text 614-470-4466, email admin@achievepsychology.org, or visit www.achievepsychology.org.
Works Cited
Wrightslaw. (2017). Special Education Law and Advocacy Tips.
Turnbull, H. R., et al. (2015). Individuals with Disabilities Education Act: A Parent’s Guide.
IDEA. (2004). Public Law 108-446.
National Center for Learning Disabilities. (2021). IEP Preparation Toolkit.
Understood.org. (2023). How to Prepare for an IEP Meeting.
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