✓ Within five school days, you should receive a copy of the IEP.

✓ Read the entire IEP: make sure you understand it completely and that it accurately reflects all decisions made at the meeting. It is often helpful to compare it to previous IEPs and to the tape recording.

✓ If changes or additions need to be made, be sure to send a copy of them in a written addendum to your case manager. Remember, you may always request another PPT meeting.

✓ Discuss your child’s IEP with your child’s teachers (including “specials”) and related service providers, and understand how the goals will be implemented across curricula — in every classroom, cafeteria, gym, etc.

✓ Meet with your child’s case manager to understand his or her role in coordinating your child’s services.

✓ Take the time to explain any special equipment your child uses at home, and make sure you understand any special equipment he or she uses in school and may bring home.

✓ Ask that samples of your child’s work be shared with you. If you have questions, make an appointment with the teacher(s) or therapist(s) to discuss new strategies to meet your child’s goals.

✓ Let the school know that you would like to be called for your input, when needed.

✓ Inform teachers of activities and significant events that may influence your child’s performance.

✓ Be an active volunteer presence in your child’s classroom and school.

✓ While in the classroom, observe how your child participates and interacts with others, both peers and adults.

✓ Speak with your child about what’s going on in school. If there are concerns, speak with another member of the PPT team.

✓ Does your child seem to be making progress toward his or her IEP goals? If not, and you see it first, take the initiative to contact the school and talk about it.

✓ Informal conferences may be convened at any time with any or all team members. Together, you and the school personnel may then address your child’s needs as they become evident.

✓ Review the Procedural Safeguards, IEP Manual and Forms, and IEP Accommodations, Adaptations and Modifications checklists. Procedural Safeguards; State Dept IEP Manual and Forms; Adaptation and Modification Checklist; PEATC Accommodations.

✓ Remember that you are the one constant in your child’s life and educational program. Step up to the challenge.