Individualized Education Program (IEP) meetings can be stressful for both parents and educators. The goal of the meeting is to discuss the student’s needs and come up with a plan that meets those needs.
However, sometimes one may not feel heard in these meetings, which can be frustrating and discouraging. If you find yourself in this situation, here are some things you can do.
1. Build Relationships
It can depend on who you do not feel heard by (the student’s parents, a general education teacher colleague, the case manager, related service providers based in or outside the school, etc.). The best solutions in all these cases are preventative solutions.
Relationship-building goes a long way. When you have a positive relationship, it becomes easier to work together and find common ground. You can establish mutual respect and trust by taking the time to understand their perspective and letting them understand yours better.
2. Communicate Before the Meeting
If you plan to make significant changes to the student’s IEP (change of placement, reduction of minutes, the addition of services, etc.), communicate with parents at least a week before the meeting. Share your suggested changes, explain why you recommend those changes, and ask if they are okay with those changes.
This approach gives parents an opportunity to process the information before the meeting and come prepared with questions or concerns. This is why sending home a draft IEP can be so helpful for parents and you as the teacher.
3. Ask Questions and Provide Evidence
During the meeting, asking questions and providing evidence to support your suggestions is important. For example, if you think the student needs fewer minutes of speech therapy, explain why you believe so. Share data and work samples that show progress, and explain how the student will continue to make progress with the proposed change.
When presenting your ideas, be clear and concise so everyone understands your perspective. Remember, everyone is there for the well-being and success of the student. You are all on the same side.
4. File a Dissenting Opinion
If, despite your effort, you still feel unheard, you can file a dissenting opinion that is attached to the IEP. This document outlines your concerns and disagreement with the proposed IEP. It can also detail your recommendations for changes and provide evidence to support your case.
Tips for Helping Parents Feel Heard at an IEP Meeting
Making parents feel heard at an IEP meeting is critical to building a positive relationship with them and ensuring a successful outcome for the student. One of the essential tips for making parents feel heard is to create an atmosphere where they feel comfortable sharing their perspectives.
Before the IEP meeting, ask parents to provide any information they think is relevant and take the time to review it before the meeting.
During the meeting, actively listen to what parents say, validate their concerns, and ask questions to clarify their perspectives. It’s also important to avoid jargon or technical terms that may confuse parents and instead use clear and easily understandable language. Special education is wrought with acronyms and terminology that are not commonplace, so if you must use them, be sure to explain them thoroughly so that there is a clear understanding of what you are referring to in the IEP.
By making parents feel heard and understood, you can establish a collaborative partnership that benefits the student.
Making General Ed Teachers Feel Heard During an IEP Meeting
Collaborating with general education teachers is crucial when creating an IEP that meets a student’s needs. To help general ed teachers feel heard during an IEP meeting, it’s essential to acknowledge their expertise and input.
Ask for their observations and insights regarding the student’s performance in the classroom and how they can help support the student in reaching their goals. Share information about the student’s strengths, interests, and challenges. It can also be helpful to provide strategies or accommodations that can help the student succeed in the general education setting.
Let your general ed colleagues constructively voice their opinions and concerns and really listen to what they need in terms of support in the classroom. It is vital that they feel heard so that they can do their best to implement the IEP with fidelity.
Undoubtedly, feeling unheard during an IEP meeting can be frustrating, but it is essential to remember that everyone’s goal is to help the student succeed. Building relationships, communicating before the meeting, asking questions, and providing evidence increase the chances of finding a solution that works for everyone. And if all else fails, filing a dissenting opinion ensures that your voice is recorded and considered.
If you feel like you are not being heard by your colleagues, join our email list and VIP group where other special ed teachers share ideas and provide support to help you get through the school year.
Special education teachers don’t just write paperwork – they write possibilities. But when you’re buried in the details, it’s easy to lose sight of the bigger picture. Inside The Intentional IEP, you’ll find the tools, trainings, and ready-to-use goals that take the guesswork out of IEPs – so you can focus on what matters most: turning student potential into real, measurable progress.