Erin: I live in North Carolina & I have requested an IEP meeting for my daughter, who is in 1st grade. I submitted a request to her teacher who replied several days later (including time over the weekend), saying that we could try for two months later, since her IEP is up for review until that time. I have concerns that will also include my request to modify her IEP ASAP. What is the appropriate timeframe in NC from the time a parent requests a meeting until one is held?
I submitted in writing a request for an IEP meeting to look over my daughters goals and modify her IEP. Daughters IEP started in June towards the end of the school year. I had concerns about some of the goals and modifications and accommodations. School wrote back denying my request because its summer and they have better things to do. I just want to make sure my daughter’s IEP is fully ready to go for the new year. I also wrote a letter and sent that to the special education director and superintendent. Even they denied my request. Should I file a due process or go with a state complaint? What should be my next step?
Find out what the state rule is regarding when parents request an IEP meeting. You can write a letter outlining your concerns about the goals, need to modify the IEP & request an IEP meeting, &/or informal meeting when key staff return. A letter, & an informal meeting can let them know what your concerns are. Currently they do not know. Your state parent training & information center can assist you. http://www.parentcenterhub.org/find-your-center
Over the summer, the appropriate staff may not be available (do you go into work when you are on vacation and not being paid?). I would suggest you request a meeting during pre planning for the school year.
Chuck is right. A written letter can be a powerful tool – it makes your request stand out from the crowd. When you spend a little time thinking about the points you want to make (and stick to), you will do a better job advocating for your child.
This is even more true now, when so many people rely exclusively on emails and texts. Emails and texts are incredibly ineffective ways to communicate anything important. They are easy to misunderstand, easier to ignore and delete.
Your state parent training & information center can assist you. I would also request sending a written request for an IEP meeting to the special ed director. http://www.parentcenterhub.org/find-your-center