The articles provided here are for your information and use in publications. Copyrights cited for each apply.

Each reprint must include the author's name and contact information for the Law Offices of Herbert D. Hinkle, Esq.

 

Return to the list of online articles

 

Online Articles

How to Get the Most From Your IEP Meeting

by
Herbert D. Hinkle, Esq. and Ira M. Fingles, Esq.

Herbert D. Hinkle Law Office
2651 Main Street
Lawrenceville, New Jersey 08648
(609) 896-4200 or (215) 860-2100

This is the time of year that many IEPs are developed. Here are some tips to ensure to the greatest degree possible that an appropriate IEP is developed:

1. Ask the district for copies of any recent evaluations, progress reports, teachersâ notes or other relevant documents before the meeting. It can be very difficult to use the information at the meeting if you have not had a chance to review it beforehand.
2. In the same vein, provide any evaluations, progress reports or other written documents that you think are relevant to the IEP teams before the meeting.
3. Decide what questions you want to ask and what you want to accomplish at the meeting. Make a list so you can check things off as you go along.
4. GO TO THE MEETING. Even if you are certain that you will disagree with the IEP, it is essential that you go to the meeting and express your concerns.
5. Take people with you who are knowledgeable about your childâs needs and/or special education, such as a private speech therapist or someone from a consumer organization.
6. Take notes at the meeting. Having good notes will help you remember what was discussed at the meeting. Which leads to . . .
7. To tape or not to tape? A tape recorder may hinder open discussion, but it can also be helpful if a dispute arises.
8. Be specific. IEP teams tend to be very vague about a childâs abilities and needs. It is up to you to make sure that the details are addressed.
9. Take as much time as you need. Do not feel pressured to squeeze everything into the half-hour or hour you are allotted. If more time is needed, say so.
10. Only sign the IEP (and NORA if applicable) if you are fully in agreement with it.
11. Follow up. Send a follow up letter noting areas of disagreement.

Of course, there is no guarantee that these things will work. Even if they do not, doing them puts you in a much better position to get a favorable resolution at mediation or due process in the event of a dispute.

 

Copyright 2000 H.D. Hinkle. All rights reserved.

Mr. Hinkle maintains a multi-state law practice with offices in Lawrenceville, Florham Park, and Marlton, NJ, and Yardley, Pa. Mr. Hinkle and his colleagues Ira Fingles, and Paul Prior lecture and write frequently on topics of law, aging, and disability, and are available to speak to groups in New Jersey and Pennsylvania at no charge. Call (609) 896-4200.