The Storm Special Education Solutions, LLC.
Talking with Tara-Lee
About Special Education
Can my child still get services if they have high grades? Answer: Yes. Eligibility for special education is based on a child’s unique needs, not just their grades. A child might have strong grades but still need specialized support in social-emotional areas, executive functioning, or other skill sets to make appropriate progress.
IEP
Test In
Test Out
What if the school says my child is doing “well enough” and doesn’t need an IEP anymore, but I disagree? Answer: If the school proposes to exit your child from special education, they must conduct a reevaluation first. You have the right to participate in that decision and to disagree. You can request an IEE, ask for mediation, or file a due process complaint if needed.
Who Should Be on Your Child’s IEP Team? Have you ever wondered who should be on your child’s IEP team? Putting together the right team is key to making sure your child gets the support they need. By law, an IEP team includes: ✅ Parents/Guardians – You know your child best! Your input is essential. ✅ General Education Teacher – Provides insight into how your child learns alongside peers. ✅ Special Education Teacher – Helps develop strategies and supports tailored to your child’s needs. ✅ School District Representative – Ensures the school provides appropriate services and resources. ✅ Evaluation Specialist – Shares assessment results to guide decisions. ✅ Your Child (when appropriate) – Older students can provide valuable input about their own learning. You can also invite advocates, therapists, or others who understand your child’s needs. A strong team makes all the difference!
What role do I play as a parent in the IEP team? Answer: You are a full and equal member of the IEP team. Your input, concerns, and observations about your child are crucial. You have the right to ask questions, suggest changes, and be involved in all decisions about services, placement, and goals.
What are SMART goals in an IEP? Answer: SMART goals are Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound. IEP goals should clearly define what your child will achieve, how progress will be measured, and in what time frame — not vague or general statements.
Questions to Ask at an IEP Meeting Series...
Ever wonder what you should be asking during your child IEP ❓ Part 1 Here are some Questions that might be helpful to ask in the IEP Series part one: ⭐️What data is being used to determine my child’s present levels of performance? (Why: You want to make sure decisions are based on actual data, not just opinions.) ⭐️What specialized instruction or interventions will be provided, and how often? (Why: Services must be specific, not vague. You need to know what will happen and how often.) ⭐️ How are my child’s goals measurable? Can you show me how progress will be tracked? (Why: Goals need clear measurements so you can hold the school accountable for progress.)
Ever wonder what you should be asking during your child IEP❓ Part 2.. Here are some Questions that might be helpful to ask in the IEP Series part two: ⭐️ Who will be providing the services — a certified special educator, therapist, or paraprofessional? (Why: Qualifications matter — a specialist versus a general staff member can make a big difference.) ⭐️ How will general education teachers be informed of and involved in the IEP? (Why: If your child is in general education settings, those teachers need to know how to support them.) ⭐️ What accommodations and modifications will be provided, and in what settings? (Why: Accommodations should not only exist “on paper” but be in place consistently across classes.)
Bonus!!! Ever wonder what you should be asking during your child IEP❓ ..Bonus part to what should you ask during an IEP meeting! 🌟⭐️🌟 Always ask, “Can you put that in writing for me?” if something is promised verbally during a meeting. If it’s not written in the IEP, it’s not enforceable. ⭐️additionally if you have an in person or telephone conversation, follow up with an email “per our conversation on____…”
Ever wonder what you should be asking during your child IEP Part 3 Here are some helpful questions to consider asking…. ⭐️What does success look like for my child this year? (Why: This helps the team stay focused on meaningful progress, not just compliance.) ⭐️ How will the school communicate with me about my child’s progress and any challenges? (Why: Regular communication builds trust and helps catch issues early.) ⭐️ Has the team considered assistive technology, social skills instruction, or other supports? (Why: These are often overlooked, but can be critical tools for many students.) ⭐️ If my child struggles despite these services, what is the plan to adjust or add support? (Why: You want to know there’s a plan for adjusting the IEP if it’s not working — early, not late.).
