By Yulianna Godinez, Arizona State University, created in collaboration with Parents2Partners. Tips from a first year special education math resource teacher, grades 9 to 12.
IEP meetings can feel overwhelming for families and new teachers alike. Here is how educators can prepare and make every parent feel informed, confident, and included.
Before the IEP meeting
- Communicate clearly and often. Use plain language and avoid special education jargon. Share updates early, not only when there is a concern.
- Make parents true partners. Ask for their input and listen actively. Families know their child best.
- Be flexible. Offer virtual, phone, and in person options at different times.
- Share simple tools. Provide easy guides, templates, or resources.
- Build trust on purpose. Reach out with positive updates, not only about what a student cannot do yet.
- Focus on real life outcomes. Connect IEP goals to independence, careers, and life skills.
- Provide documents in the family’s language. Notices, safeguards, and consent forms should be accurately translated when a family’s primary language is not English.
Family involvement is not about doing more. It is about doing things differently so every parent feels part of the team.
Common IEP documents to have ready
Forms vary by state and district, but a typical IEP packet includes:
- Meeting invitation and any team member excusal forms
- Cover page, annual goal pages, and accommodations page
- State assessment page
- Post high school transition plan and consent for transition services (for high school students)
- Summary of services and special factors
- Progress reports and prior written notice
- Procedural safeguards, which explain family rights. Check your state department of education for the current version.