August Newsletter
As the new school year begins, navigating IEPs can feel overwhelming and stressful for many families. It is more than just juggling school supplies and bus schedules. There is an urgency to ensure your child is not only welcomed into the classroom but truly supported from the very first day. At IEP Partner, we understand that the early weeks of school are more than a transition—they're a foundation. When an IEP is implemented properly from the start, it can shape a year of growth, confidence, and connection.
Unfortunately, essential information doesn’t always reach the right hands in time. Teachers, paraprofessionals, therapists, and specialists may begin the year without fully reviewing a child’s goals, services, supports, or accommodations. That’s why taking a proactive role isn’t just helpful—it’s required. By reaching out, sharing key documents, and establishing clear communication, families can help ensure their child’s needs are not only known but met.
At IEP Partner, we are here to support that process, so your child can start this new school year off empowered. We are excited to help you in this beginning stage of your journey!
Articles
1. "Successful Back-to-School Transition Tips for Parents of Children with Special Needs" – Behavioral Innovations
This article shares simple, effective strategies—like visual aids, routines, and school visits—to help children with disabilities transition smoothly into the school year.
2. OCECD Back to School Tips – Parts 1 & 2
These guides from OCECD offer tips for transitioning from summer to school, advocating for your child, managing medical needs, and building routines. Topics include homework, social skills, long-term projects, and preschool readiness.
FOR PARENTS OF SPECIAL NEEDS LEARNERS: READ ARTICLE HERE
3. Back-to-School Checklist & Podcast - Understood.org
A quick, practical guide to help parents of kids with learning differences start the school year strong. Includes tips on IEP prep, routines, school communication, and expert insights in the companion podcast.
Tips for Supporting Your Child's Success
1. Connect with the School Staff
Start the Year with Strong School Connections.
When preparing for the new school year, it’s important to introduce yourself and your child to their full school team—this includes all teachers, the ESE specialist or case manager, related service providers (such as the SLP, OT, PT, or counselor), and school administrators. We also recommend making a positive connection with the School Resource Officer, as they play an important role in your child’s daily school environment.
To help you get started, we’ve included a sample email and a “Get to Know My Child” template you can use to establish a collaborative and supportive relationship with the team from day one.
2. Use a Communication Log
Use this log to track all communication with your child’s school team.
Documenting each interaction helps ensure clarity, consistency, and accountability. Be sure to include dates, times, names, and a summary of what was discussed or decided.
Tip: If you have a phone or in-person conversation, always follow up with a brief email summarizing the key points to the staff member you spoke with. This helps keep everyone on the same page and provides a written record for future reference.
3. Know Your Parent Rights
You have the right to be informed and involved in your child’s education.
You can request progress data, service logs, and regular updates from the school. You have the right to call an IEP meeting at any time, and you can request evaluations, changes to the IEP, or additional supports whenever concerns arise.
Special Items
Yours in Advocacy,
