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Five P's for an IEP Meeting
by Roxie Johnson

A common occurrence in today's public schools is the Individualized Education Program (IEP) Meeting. The IEP Meeting is required at least once annually for all students enrolled in special education programs. As a general education teacher, you may be wondering why you need to attend the meeting and what your role is in that meeting. Here are a few pointers to help you prepare for the meeting, the Five P's for an IEP Meeting.

Be Prepared. The meeting will go more smoothly if everyone present is prepared.
Come prepared by bringing work samples and current grades. Be prepared to speak about behavioral concerns. Bring some examples of work from other students (anonymous, of course), from an average student, an above average student, and a below average student, so the parent can get an idea of where the student is functioning in relation to his age- level peers. Be prepared to talk about the modifications and accommodations you have made for the student in your classroom. Bring samples of modified materials. Do not forget about all the little accommodations you make on a daily basis.

Be Punctual. Schools run on tight schedules. Only a specific amount of time like a teacher planning period is available for the meeting. There are a number of items that must be addressed in the meeting, so it is of extreme importance for the meeting to begin on time. Being on time makes the meeting go more smoothly for everyone concerned.

Be Present. Be an active participant in the meeting. Your role is to represent general education. Even though you may have a million other things that need to be done, stay "in the moment." Do not bring papers to grade or anything else that does not pertain directly to the student. Sometimes the meeting will drag on and the discussion does not directly involve you, but it is important to show that you are interested in the welfare of the student. Nothing offends parents more than the impression that you are not interested in their child.

Be Positive. Be sure to greet the parent when you enter the meeting. Make every attempt to put the parent at ease. Imagine yourself in the parent's position, walking into a room of "professionals" who are talking about your child. A positive attitude will go a long way in making the parent comfortable. Remember this parent is dealing with a child with a disability. Think about how you would feel if you were in their situation and how you would want to be treated.

Be Professional. IEP meetings can sometimes become emotionally charged. Remain calm and do not allow yourself to become defensive. Look to your administrator for guidance. There is nothing wrong with taking a short break if tempers start to flare. If you find you cannot agree on a point, it may be necessary to ask to "table" that point and return to it later so the meeting can move forward.

IEP meetings are a common part of the day in today's public schools. Know the expectations and guidelines. And remember the Five P's will make the meetings a better experience for all involved.

Roxie Johnson spent twenty-nine years as a special education teacher and educational diagnostician in Texas public schools.