5 things to do after an IEP meeting

After an IEP meeting, you need to take care of some details. These can vary from one meeting to the next. Here are five important things to do after an IEP meeting.

1. Share your notes.

After the IEP meeting, send an email or letter to the case manager summarizing what decisions and questions came out of the meeting. Did the school agree to set up another meeting? Are you going to ask for a mediation session? By putting that in writing, you make sure everyone is on the same page and has next steps on their calendars.

2. Review and sign the final IEP.

The IEP you and your child’s IEP team talk about in the meeting is a draft. The school or district will finalize the IEP after the meeting and send you a copy to sign. Make sure you sign it and return it by the deadline they give you. (Be sure to keep a copy for yourself.) Here’s a list of things to double-check before signing an IEP.

3. Say thanks.

Send a simple but sincere thank-you note to anyone who supported you during the meeting. Let them know how they made a difference. Even a quick email or a call is a nice way to show your gratitude.

4. Connect with your child.

If your child didn’t go to the meeting, share how it went. Be sure to mention the positive things people said along with the challenges. Keep your child’s age and maturity in mind as you explain any changes. Describe new supports and services in simple terms.

If your child joined you at the meeting, ask how it felt to be there. From your child’s point of view, what went well? What could have gone better? Praise your child’s hard work and effort.

5. Update your IEP files at home.

Organize the documents that came out of the IEP meeting, including a copy of the new IEP. Note any important dates, like when progress reports are sent out, on your calendar. Put the new IEP, as well as the notes and documents you took to the meeting, in your IEP binder.