Pop-Up IEP

Contact your child’s IEP team leader in advance if you plan to request goals or services which may require input from someone who does not usually attend your child’s IEP meeting.
Request a parent-teacher conference in advance so you can review issues and information with the regular education teacher, thus cutting the amount of time required for his/her presence at the IEP meeting.
Make sure that everyone who needs to be present is listed on your IEP meeting notice. If a team member is missing from the list, call and find out why and arrange for a new meeting date if necessary. If you do not receive this notice, insist on one for future meetings.
If a certain team member is notorious for being a “no-show,” try to find out why and ask your child’s case manager and/or LEA representative for help in solving the problem.
When a team member is excused from attending the IEP meeting, create a plan to share important information he/she missed.
Be courteous and notify the IEP team leader (e.g., school psychologist) in advance of the people you are bringing with you, or if you have to reschedule the meeting.
Thank the staff members who come to the meeting. Even if you don’t agree with their recommendations, show your appreciation for their participation.
If you disagree with the IEP, make sure to include a written statement noting your objections. Unless indicated otherwise, signing the IEP indicates attendance, but not necessarily agreement.