educational info

Educational Information

HOW TO PARTICIPATE IN YOUR CHILD'S IEP MEETING

Published by: Coordinating Council for Handicapped Children
220 South State Street
Room 412
Chicago, IL 60604
(312) 939-3513

This pamphlet is funded in part through funds from the U.S. Department of
Education, Office of Special Education and Rehabilitative Services (Grant #
G008203011).

It may be reproduced without prior permission provided credit is given to
the Coordinating Council for Handicapped Children on the title page.

HOW TO PARTICIPATE EFFECTIVELY IN YOUR CHILD'S IEP MEETING

As the parent of a child with special education needs, you should learn how to use the IEP (Individualized Education Program) process as an effective tool to obtain appropriate special education and related services for your child.

YOU SHOULD KNOW

What an IEP should consist of
How to prepare for an IEP meeting
How to write your own IEP input statement
How to effectively participate in an IEP meeting
How to use positive communication skills to build a cooperative
home/school relationship.

How to obtain appropriate special education and related services for your child through the IEP.

WHAT IS AN IEP?

Federal and State Law (P.L. 94-142, the Education for All Handicapped Children Act, Article 14 of the School Code of Illinois) mandates a FREE APPROPRIATE EDUCATION for all children with special education needs, from 3 to 21 years of age. The IEP is the specific vehicle for your child's free appropriate education. You must always keep in mind that you, as the parent, know our child better than anyone else. Therefore, your input during the IEP process is essential and invaluable.

State and Federal Law require that a written Individualized Education Program (IEP) be developed, and reviewed annually, to meet your child's unique education needs.

The IEP is developed at a special meeting, which includes your
participation and the participation of: 

Your child's teacher and another representative from the school who is qualified to provide or supervise your child's special education program.

Your child, where appropriate

A member of the evaluation team, or staff member who is knowledgeable about the procedures and results of the evaluation (for a newly evaluated child).

Other persons, of the school's or your choosing, who have a current educational interest in your child.

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