‘Tis The Season
…for Emma’s IEP, that is. It is that time of year where we, as a team, sit down and discuss where Emma’s at, and what her goals should be. I always stress out around this time because I never know if our goals will match up. In other words, what I think Emma needs may not be what they think Emma needs. For example, a few people on the team last year didn’t think Emma would need a full-time aide to help her in the classroom. I knew her better then that, and I fought for the aide. In the end, she got the aide (of course), but not without a few battles. Did she need the aide? Absolutely. Is she doing awesome with the aide? Absolutely. (Insert “I Told You So” here)
So I can’t help but wonder what, if any, obstacles will come our way. I won’t be naive to think that she will get everything she needs without any struggles from the team. I always go into these with a firm stance on what I believe she needs as a student. I’m not sure whether the team sees it as a benefit or not, but I think that it’s lucky for me (and Emma) that I used to teach. I am able to see both sides of the table. This also means I’m no fool and you won’t be able to pull the wool over my eyes. I think a lot of parents are like that. They know me better then that, now. I am here to fight for what Emma needs, and no one will stand in my way. Got that?
Phew.
If anyone has gone through the IEP process, it can be grueling, draining, and a battle. One thing I highly recommend is hiring an advocate. I have hired a wonderful advocate, Chris. He has been wonderful in supporting Emma’s needs, and ours. What I like about Chris is that he has quite the education to back up his expertise. But more than the education, he’s got the experience. See, he’s got ONH as well. So his input comes from a place of book smarts, as well as personal experience. Can’t beat that combo. He’s been a tremendous help with Emma. And while he’s in Ohio, we just conference him in on telephone!
We have this IEP in 2 weeks. I’m nervous…not gonna lie. I don’t typically like meetings, and I definitely don’t like confrontation (though it’s never really gotten to that point). I will definitely let you know how it all turns out!
If you’ve been through an IEP, what were your experiences?
Jessica, good luck with Emma’s IEP. I am sure you’ll get what she needs, but wish the meeting goes smoothly and you wouldn’t need to fight for the services she requires. Don’t forget to take audio-recording device with you
I am glad to hear that Chris is going to advocate for you and Emma. I am also taking this information as confirmation that Chris is well. I got worried because I didn’t see his posts lately. Anton’s IEP is in March. It’s going to be “fun” this year, because I already informed our district that we will be seeking their financial support in having Perkins take Anton to Berklee College of Music part-time. 
Best wished, and please do let me know how Emma’s IEP meeting went.
Thanks, Julia! I did tell Chris we missed him and he said he’d post an update! I hope your IEP goes well and that Perkins will give you no troubles with financial aid. I will keep you posted! Thanks for commenting!
You know my experiences with our Mason! Awful! I’m always nervous when it comes to his IEP. Mainly because I KNOW our goals aren’t going to match up. I know my child, and they don’t want to deal with him. We’re trying to get him somewhere else, so hopefully that’ll work out. Don’t be nervous…you know your child, and you know what is best for her. It’s always a fight, isn’t it? By the way, love the new look for your blog.
My son’s IEP meetings were always horrible! Sorry, but they were. I had to fight for everything he needed. Some requirements, such as having a one-on-one teacher during standardized testing were never even met due to the school not having the available staff. After 3 years of this, we began homeschooling. Its been a challenge, but its totally worth it!