The mid-year mark is an ideal opportunity for parents to check in with teachers and the support team about their child’s progress and Individualized Education Program (IEP). After the holiday break, taking a moment to connect can provide valuable insights into how your child is transitioning back to routines, any emerging challenges, and areas where they may be excelling. It’s also a time when benchmark assessments might be completed, offering additional data to evaluate progress toward goals.
To check in on your child's IEP progress, you can request a meeting with your child's IEP team to discuss their current progress towards their goals, review data collected by teachers, and ask questions about areas where they might need additional support; you can also typically access progress reports periodically throughout the school year which will detail your child's performance against their IEP goals.
Checking in with the school to ensure your child with an Individualized Education Program (IEP) is thriving involves proactive communication and collaboration. Here are some effective strategies:
1. Schedule Regular Meetings
IEP Meetings: These annual meetings are essential but can be supplemented with interim check-ins if concerns arise.
Parent-Teacher Conferences: Use these to discuss academic, behavioral, and social progress.
2. Communicate Frequently
Email Updates: Reach out to teachers, special education staff, or case managers for periodic updates.
Progress Reports: Request frequent reports, especially if goals or services are new or challenging.
3. Review Progress Toward Goals
Ask for Data: Review the specific data the school is using to track progress (e.g., test scores, behavior logs, or other assessments tied to IEP goals).
Service Logs: Confirm that all scheduled services (e.g., speech therapy, OT) are being delivered as agreed.
4. Observe Your Child in School
Classroom Observation: If allowed, observe your child in their learning environment to see how accommodations and supports are implemented.
Shadowing: Some schools permit a parent or external observer to shadow the child.
5. Build Relationships with Key Staff
Case Manager: Maintain an open line of communication with the case manager overseeing the IEP.
Specialists: Check in with therapists, aides, or specialists involved in your child's services.
6. Join the Parent-Teacher Association (PTA)
Get involved to understand broader school dynamics and policies that might affect your child.
7. Maintain a Communication Log
Keep track of all communication with the school (emails, phone calls, meetings) to ensure follow-ups and consistency.
8. Advocate for Transparency
Request Observational Notes: Ask for examples of how your child’s accommodations (e.g., extended test time, sensory breaks) are being used in practice.
Clarify Changes: If there are changes to the IEP or service delivery, ensure you are consulted and agree.
9. Utilize Parent-Teacher Apps or Portals
Many schools use digital platforms where you can check grades, attendance, and teacher feedback in real time.
10. Stay Alert to Your Child's Behavior
At Home: Watch for signs of stress, frustration, or improvement that might indicate how well the IEP is meeting their needs.
Self-Advocacy: Teach your child to share their feelings about school, services, and accommodations.
Consistency and collaboration between parents and the school are key to ensuring the IEP supports your child effectively. Let us know what questions you have about the IEP.
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