178. 3 Important IEP Conversations

Every week our Master IEP Coach® community gathers to discuss wins, worries, and struggles in our Special Education system. This week on the Special Education Inner Circle podcast I'm sharing 3 conversations and solutions that you can use at your IEP table. :

• The Difference Between a Compliant IEP and a Best Fit IEP
• Moving Beyond Meetings to Save Time and Resources
• Data-Driven Decisions for Special Education Placement

Stay tuned to the end to hear how you can become a Master IEP Coach® and join us for our weekly Special Education strategy sessions!

Episode Notes:  

• (01:00) In the Master IEP Coach® community, consisting of parents, teachers, admins, and therapists, conversations are being had about creating positive, collaborative ways to build better IEPs for children. While compliance is necessary in IEPs, the sweet spot lies in making sure that the parent input section is not only compliant but also a true driver for the child's needs. This means prioritizing the concerns of parents, who will be with their child throughout their school career and beyond. By doing so, we can create IEPs that are not just compliant, but the best fit for the child, preparing them for further education, employment, and independent living.
  
  
• (03:53) Although compliance and a legally fit document is essential, we also need efficient and effective ways to build IEPs without relying on countless meetings. With all the tech tools we have, waiting for the next meeting is not always necessary. Always ask yourself (and others!) is a meeting really needed for this?
  
  
• (06:46) Many school systems still rely on an outdated method of placement for children with individualized education programs (IEPs). They determine where a child should receive services based solely on the level of support they require, rather than considering data to determine the most appropriate environment. This method can lead to children being placed in classrooms that do not meet their needs or restrict their potential. For example, a child transitioning from preschool to kindergarten may be recommended for a self-contained classroom, despite the parents' desire to try general education with supports. It's crucial to gather and analyze data before making a decision on placement.

Links Mentioned In This Episode:

• Master IEP Coach® Certificate Program
• Start Your Own IEP Coaching Practice
• Download 12 IEP Questions You Need to Ask
• Find All the Special Education Inner Circle Podcast Episodes