Many schools are going back virtually this fall. School systems are rightly concerned with helping to stop the spread of Covid-19, but going back using a virtual model presents some challenges to teachers.
One of these challenges is how to hold virtual IEP meetings. There are many effective ways to hold effective IEP meetings virtually, so let’s take a look to learn about some of the best practices for virtual IEP meetings.
In order to be prepared for a virtual IEP meeting, several factors must be taken into consideration. One of the biggest factors is the Internet capabilities of the family. If the family does not have Internet access, a call-in option can be arranged for the parent through a soft phone extension. The school or a local library may also have Internet access that a parent could utilize in the parking lot of the facility.
Even though the meeting is virtual, paperwork still must be mailed home in the time frame it would have been mailed if school had been in session. For example, a draft IEP should go home 5 days prior to the meeting. This IEP Timeline is a great reference.
Arrange for an interpreter of the parent requires one. Additionally, be sure that all parties involved in the meeting receive clear directions about logging in and have a backup plan in case of a technology glitch.
Meeting virtually will require more patience than meeting face-to-face. Taking a minute every so often to make sure that everyone can hear, everyone’s tech is working, and nobody has any questions will help to prevent confusion and frustration.
Check out this snippet from a live training from inside the TII membership on virtual IEP meetings:
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If your technology allows, sharing your screen can be a great way to give everyone a visual aid. Even if everyone has a printout of the IEP or evaluation, screen sharing will allow everyone to stay on the same page and lessen confusion. Screen sharing allows people to focus on one section of the IEP at a time.
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Much of the paperwork associated with an IEP requires signatures from teachers, building coordinators, and parents. The parents must sign the invitation, everyone must sign the NOREP, and there may also be other forms, such as medical assistance, that need signatures.
Your district should decide on a consistent way of obtaining signatures. Some districts may mail the papers to the appropriate parties, but this can get time-consuming and expensive. Another option is using an electronic signature service such as DocuSign. Electronic signature services are legally binding and work as a great option when signatures are needed and people cannot be together.
By following these quick tips and moving forward with patience and a sense of humor, your virtual IEP meetings will be a success!
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