How to Collaborate Effectively with Your Child’s IEP Team

Guest blog contributed by: Kate Lakowski, NCSP School Psychologist/Educational Consultant with Education Empowerment Partners, PLLC. Consider joining her for a live discussion/Q&A session on Thursday, April 3rd from 7:00-8:00pm during our hybrid zoom webinar!  Registration is free, but required using this link.

Working closely with your child’s Individualized Education Plan (IEP) team is crucial for their academic success. This collaborative effort can significantly impact your child’s educational experience and overall development. Here are some strategies to help you become an effective partner in your child’s IEP process.

Understand the IEP Process

Familiarize yourself with the IEP process and its components. This knowledge will empower you to participate actively in meetings and discussions. In addition to meeting the members of your IEP team—typically comprised of the case manager, general education teacher, school administrator, school social worker, and district special education coordinator or director—research special education laws, rights, and responsibilities to advocate effectively for your child.

Prepare for IEP Meetings

Before each meeting, gather relevant information about your child’s progress, challenges, and strengths. Write down your observations, concerns, and questions. This preparation will help you communicate clearly and contribute meaningfully to the discussion.

Maintain Open Communication

Establish regular communication channels with your child’s teachers and other IEP team members via a communication plan. Share updates about your child’s progress at home and any concerns you may have. Encourage team members to reach out to you with their observations and insights.

Focus on Your Child’s Strengths

While addressing areas for improvement is important, don’t forget to highlight your child’s strengths and talents. This positive approach can help the team develop strategies that build on your child’s abilities and boost their confidence. These strengths can also guide transition planning in later years. 

Be an Active Listener

During IEP meetings, listen attentively to the perspectives and recommendations of other team members. Their expertise and experiences can provide valuable insights into your child’s education. Take notes and ask for clarification when necessary.

Express Your Thoughts Clearly

Share your ideas, concerns, and suggestions openly and respectfully. Use specific examples to illustrate your points, and be prepared to discuss potential solutions. Remember that you are an essential member of the team, and your input is valuable.

Set Realistic Goals

Work with the IEP team to establish achievable, measurable goals for your child. These objectives should be challenging yet attainable, considering your child’s current abilities and potential for growth.

Be Flexible and Open-minded

Approach IEP meetings with a willingness to consider different perspectives and strategies. Be open to trying new approaches and adjusting goals as your child progresses.

Request Progress Updates

Ask for regular updates on your child’s progress toward their IEP goals. This information will help you track their development and identify areas that may require additional support or modification.

Celebrate Achievements

Acknowledge and celebrate your child’s progress, no matter how small. Recognizing their efforts and accomplishments and communicating them with the team can motivate them to continue working hard and build their self-esteem.

Seek Support When Necessary

If you feel overwhelmed or unsure about any aspect of the IEP process, don’t hesitate to seek support. Connect with other parents, join support groups, or consult with special education advocates for guidance and advice.

Review and Revise Regularly

Participate in periodic reviews of your child’s IEP to assess its effectiveness and make necessary adjustments. As your child grows and develops, their educational requirements may change, and the IEP should reflect these evolving needs.

By implementing these strategies, you can become an effective collaborator with your child’s IEP team. Your active involvement and dedication will contribute significantly to your child’s educational success and personal growth.

Kate Lakowski, NCSP

School Psychologist/Educational Consultant

Kate Lakowski worked as a school psychologist in a large suburban high school district for sixteen years. Throughout her time there, Kate gained extensive experience with special education eligibility, law, and procedure. Additionally, she was a part of numerous IEP meetings involving school attorneys and advocates which fostered her passion for collaborative problem solving. Kate has expertise in IEP and 504 eligibility, educational placement decisions, and discipline procedures for special education students. Kate has a passion for the law and ethical practices that ensure successful student outcomes. Her background as a school psychologist is central to her consultative approach, one that is rooted in data-based decision making and catered to an individual student’s unique needs.

Kate completed her graduate training at Northeastern University in Boston Massachusetts. She received a Master of Science in School Psychology and an Educational Specialist Degree in School Psychology. Kate also completed the Mediation Training Certificate program through Northwestern University. Kate is a Nationally Certified School Psychologist and a member of the National Association of School Psychologists.

Education Empowerment Partners

educationempowermentpartners.com

Education Empowerment Partners was founded by Kate Lakowski, a nationally certified school psychologist who is uniquely qualified to help you with your child’s needs. Through a collaborative approach and data-based decision making, Kate will work with your child’s educational team to develop a plan that will help lead to successful outcomes for your child’s educational career and future goals.

The information and opinions presented in each blog post belong to each individual author. The purpose of C.I.T.Y. of Support’s collaborative blog is to help connect families and professionals to different community resources, and we do not specifically endorse any particular recommendations provided herein.