Video Transcript - 6 Principles of IDEA: Parent & Student Participation

The importance of parent and student participation in the IEP process cannot be overstated. In fact, IDEA was drafted with the intention of full and meaningful partnership with families.

Here are some important factors to keep in mind when approaching parent and student participation in the IEP process:

• Parent and school partnerships are essential
• Parents know their child best
• Students should always be included in the IEP process, as this increases their engagement. In fact, students are required to be included in the process once they reach the age of 15, or by the end of 9th grade.
• Parents are team members and equal participants in team processes.
• Parents are the protector of the student’s IDEA rights. However, keep in mind that the right to meaningful input is not the right to dictate an outcome.

Here are some tips to make the most of your parent and student participation in your child’s IEP process.

• Remember that while you are the expert in your child’s disability, your teacher is the expert on education.
• Understand that you are the one consistent person in your child’s school career and that you know your child in multiple environments, such as home, community, school, and activities.
• Stay involved and communicate regularly, such as by volunteering at your school, joining the PTA, or attending the School Accountability Committee.
• Build a working relationship with your school and show respect to the people working with your child
• Remember that negotiation is part of the process. Figure your “must haves” for the year and be prepared with data to back this up.
• Prepare to handle emotions that may arise during the process. For instance, preplanning may reduce the likelihood of an emotional response. If you know that you are going to cry, have a plan in place to make your voice heard, such as by bringing in a friend to take notes.
• Above all, remain focused on your child’s needs. Remember, this is about the student, not the adults in the room