Including Student Voice in IEP Meetings
Be sure to check out our 5 part podcast series all about the power of student voice in the IEP process! CLICK HERE for the episodes (audio and video!)
Including student voice in IEP meetings is incredibly important. A group of adults sitting around trying to figure out how to support your child without your child there to give their input can feel a little bit counterintuitive. But how can this realistically be done when it feels like we are pressed for time in these meetings and when all the terminology feels so confusing even to adults? What can a child really contribute to or get out of their meeting?
While we totally agree that including your child is not easy, we really think it is important and want to give you some ideas for how to do this in a way that lowers stress all around and provides meaningful opportunities for your child to take part in their own meeting!
For older students (14-22):
By the time a child turns 14, they should be invited to their own IEP meeting. When you get the invitation to your 14 year old’s meeting you should see that their name is included on the attendance sheet. You should reach out to the school liaison, if not, to make sure they plan to include them.
For older students (across all disability types), in addition to being invited to the meeting the team should be considering their input. Either before or during the meeting, the following questions are appropriate for the school team (and you!) to ask your child:
What is your vision for after high school? College? Work? Military? Other?
How do you currently get around? A parent driving you? Driving yourself? Public transportation? Walking? What do you envision for transportation in the future? Do you want to get a license? Study for a permit test?
Where do you see yourself living as a young adult? In a college dorm? In an apartment? Alone? With family? With roommates?
What kind of work do you see yourself doing in the future? If you are not sure, what are some of the activities you engage in now that might let us know what interests you?
For younger students (under 14):
Including younger students in IEP meetings can feel even harder! But there are ways to do it without making your child nervous or uncomfortable. Generally, students under 14 do not attend their IEP meetings. There are still ways to include their input, though. One idea is a student interview/survey before the meeting to gain insight into their interests and what they perceive as their strengths and what is helpful for them in school. The teacher (or you) can work together with your child to create a short slideshow to be shared at the beginning of the meeting that includes their answers. The youngest of children can write a sentence or two to share, draw a picture, or voice record some answers to these interview questions! The goal is just making sure they feel affirmed and validated and a part of the process.
And remember, as the parent you have the right to:
Ask that your child attend some but not all of the meeting.
Share evaluation results with your child ahead of time.
Ask to check in with the school liaison before the meeting to make a plan.
Questions about how to include your student more in their IEP process? Reach out!
Be sure to check out our 5 part podcast series all about the power of student voice in the IEP process! CLICK HERE for the episodes (audio and video!)
