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15 RESOURCES FOR THOSE WHO SUPPORT A STUDENT WITH AN IEP

Whether you are a teacher, parent, student, or administrator if you sit at the IEP table, you can never have enough resources. Our educational journey doesn't stop - especially when the needs of who we support change.


Depending on time, position, and enjoyment there are a variety of tools we can interact with to learn more, reflect on our current practices, and view things from different perspectives.


Below are 15 resources useful for anyone who works with someone with an IEP.

 

WEBSITES

1. Special Education Action Council - There are a variety of names for the same program, and they are popping up across the country. These are typically school district-based organizations. They can hold meetings, advocate and advise on special education issues. Councils generally are composed of parents and teachers passionate about improving special education. Ask your case manager or special education department about information for your local council.

2. The Arc - The Arc national is a national organization. Its mission is to support families and individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. While they focus on community inclusion, they also work to provide information, advocacy, and skill training.

3. Center for Parent Information & Resources - CPIR is her to support families supporting children with disabilities. They are funded by the Office of Special Education Services of the Department of Education. They provide resources and services to families. You can sign up for newsletters, parent training, and more!

4. LDFRA - The Learning Disability Resources Foundation Action provides a variety of resources. Their tools focus on creating positive outcomes for those with learning disabilities. While their main focus is Learning Disability (LD), Dyslexia, and ADHD, the resources and blogs they create are beneficial to all.

5. "Talking to Your Child About Their Disability" - While this is an article rather than a website, this is something that I am passionate about. I've worked with students at various levels who were aware of their disabilities and IEP. I have also worked with students in more-restrictive programs who were unaware of what special education even is. All students benefit from learning this about themselves. The more we discuss it, reduces the stigma around it. My husband's mother made him aware at a young age and that has helped tremendously throughout his life after high school. This article provides tips and points for approaching this conversation.

 

BOOKS

All About IEPs is a book written by Peter and Pamela Wright and Sandra Webb O'Connor. Peter Wright is known for his landmark win in the Supreme Court. His case had a positive impact for all students with educational disabilities. This book is divided into chapter topics, and within chapters as "Frequently Asked Questions". All About IEPs is easy to read and understand for parents and educators. The book is that is based on the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), the standard special education law, and your rights! Each county may do things a little different, but they must (at a minimum) meet IDEA law.



 

PODCASTS

Special Education Inner Circle

From the Master IEP Coach, Catherine Whitcher, her podcast focuses on preparing students and families for the future. What I love most about her podcast is they are less than 30 minutes and you end listening with something actionable.

The Parent IEP Lab

Don't IEP Alone

Inclusive Education Project

Images retrieved from podcasts.apple.com

 

PRINTABLES


IEP BINDER

As someone supporting a child with an Individualized Education Plan, a key to engagement is organization. You get extensive paperwork in this field! Knowing what documents you receive and keeping them together helps you advocate for what is needed. If you like to receive paper copies of documents, print my Family IEP Binder Organization Resource here. In this resource you are provided the following:

See What's Inside!





PARENTAL RIGHTS HANDBOOK

Each state will have its own version of a parental rights handbook, but IDEA requires the following:

  • The right to participate

  • The right to invite others

  • The right to share the IEP with others

  • The right to review documents at any time

  • The right to prior written notice

  • The right to an independent evaluation

  • The right to dispute

  • The right to final say

Download Maryland's Parental Rights Handbook Here:

To find your state's handbook Google: your state+special education parental rights



UNDERSTANDING THE IEP PROCESS

This infographic provides information on the IEP process for parents. Download a printable copy here!



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