Does anyone have any experience with planning the first IEP with a new special ed program at preschool? My son is transitioning from early intervention to our town's school system next month. Any tips for the first IEP?
My advice is simple. Most IEPs are still being written up to the IEP, so wait it out, listen to what they recommend be implemented, and voice any immediate concerns or service gaps you immediately see. Then take the paperwork home, look it over at length, note any other changes you would like to make, and request a meeting to 'amend the current IEP'. Yes, you can do this. Also, doing it this way gives you time to have others look it over if you wish, like an Autism advocate or another parent you trust who has been through the wringer, so to speak, for a while.
Best of luck to you. I remember what the first IEP was like for me. I couldn't sleep, I cried a lot, I got really worked up over it, and it went much better and easily than I thought it was going to.
I agree take them home and look them over before signing and agreeing to what they have come up with.
If you believe your child needs more than they suggest fight for it and get evaluations and RX to prove it, then request another meeting with your concerns
I didn't know this at first but you don't have to sign papers the day of IEP. You can take them home & think about everything.