We always advise being as well prepared as possible for your child’s IEP meetings. This of course means being able to review the majority of the documents presented at your child’s IEP to give you some time to formulate any questions or comments to present during the meeting. Sometimes a draft IEP is sent home for Parents to review prior to any meetings if you request it.

 

As a part you can have mixed emotions about being presented with “draft” IEPs as the district can make you feel like they have already made the decisions without you. IDEA 2004 does not encourage the use of “draft” IEPs for that particular reason. An IEP meeting is meant to be for the whole team to discuss and make any decisions regarding your child.

 

However, many districts continue to give parents “draft” IEPs. So what can you do to take full advantage of having this document?

 

1. Get it early: Many times “draft” IEPs are handed to parents at the beginning of an IEP meeting which will not give you enough time to review all the information. Ask for any documents and records to be presented at your child’s IEP to be given to you at least 5 days in advance.
2. Review: Go through each page of the “draft” IEP and write down any questions, comments, or concerns you may have to go over at the meeting. Be certain that the present levels contain your input as well.
3. Speak Up: Just because you are handed a “draft” it does not mean that you need to simply sit back and agree to it all. Make sure that each area of need is addressed and that you make sure your participation in the IEP is at the fullest.
4. Go through it all: If you are given a “draft” IEP, have each page reviewed and discussed to make sure the decisions made involve the team as a whole
5. Review again: Once your “draft” IEP turns into a finalized one, go through each page again and make sure that any changes you requested were made and that no unnecessary changes were made before you make any decisions concerning your child’s IEP. Remember, you do not have to sign the IEP at the meeting.

 

Although the development of “draft” IEPs is frowned upon, this can give you extra time to be able to put together a good amount of questions, concerns, and comments on your child’s IEP. No IEP decisions should be made without your participation. Nor should you feel you are not able to participate because you have not been handed a document early. As always know our office is eager to join your child’s IEP team and work with your team to develop an appropriate IEP addressing all of his/her needs.