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Your Voice Matters: How to Prepare for an IEP or 504 Meeting

An Individualized Education Program (IEP) or 504 plan meeting is one of the most important opportunities you have to advocate for your child with dyslexia. As a key member of your child's team, your input is vital. Being well-prepared for this meeting will empower you to effectively communicate your child's needs and collaborate with the school to create a plan for success. This guide, based on expert advice from SPED*NET Wilton and featured on Smart Kids with LD, provides six essential tips for preparing for your next meeting [1].

The Power of Preparation

Experts, advocates, and experienced parents all agree: preparation is the key to a successful IEP or 504 meeting. Your knowledge of your child, combined with an understanding of the process and your rights, will make you a powerful and effective advocate.

1. Create Your Agenda

Before the meeting, take time to write down the issues that are most important to you. What are your primary concerns? What do you want to see accomplished? If possible, try to resolve any simple questions or concerns with the team members before the meeting. This will allow the meeting time to be used productively to discuss and agree upon the plan, rather than getting bogged down in minor details.

2. Prepare Your Questions

Ask the school for a blank copy of the IEP or 504 form they will be using. Reviewing the document ahead of time will help you understand the different components and formulate specific questions you want to discuss during the meeting.

3. Review Documents in Advance

To be a fully informed participant, request that the school provide you with copies of any evaluations, reports, and proposed goals before the meeting. This gives you time to review the information, process it, and prepare your thoughts and questions. You have the right to receive these documents in a timely manner.

4. Know Who Will Be There

The written notice for the meeting will include a list of who will be attending. Review this list to ensure that all the necessary school personnel (such as the general education teacher, special education teacher, and a district representative) will be present. You also have the right to bring someone with you—a friend, relative, advocate, or an outside evaluator who knows your child. If you plan to bring someone, be sure to notify the school in advance.

5. Connect with Other Parents

If this is your first IEP or 504 meeting, it can be incredibly helpful to talk to other parents who have been through the process. They can offer valuable insights and advice based on their own experiences. Online support groups and local parent organizations can be great resources.

6. Create a "Parent Vision Statement"

No one knows your child better than you do. Prepare a written statement that paints a picture of your child. This is your opportunity to share their unique personality, strengths, and passions, as well as their challenges.

Your Parent Vision Statement Should Include:
- A description of your child's strengths and interests.
- A summary of their academic and functional challenges.
- Information about their preferred learning styles.
- What you believe they need to succeed in school.
- Samples of their work or recent outside evaluations.

By preparing thoroughly, you can enter your child's IEP or 504 meeting with confidence, ready to work collaboratively with the school to build a plan that will truly support your child's journey to success.

References

[1] Kessler, E. (n.d.). Before the IEP Meeting: 6 Tips for Parents. Smart Kids with Learning Disabilities. Retrieved from https://www.smartkidswithld.org/getting-help/the-abcs-of-ieps/iep-meeting-6-tips-parents/ '''

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