IEP Preparation: Getting Ready for a New School Year 

As summer winds down and families begin preparing for the new school year, parents and caregivers of children with disabilities often face the additional task of ensuring their child’s Individualized Education Program (IEP) is ready to support another year of growth and learning. At the Trudeau Center, we understand that effective IEP preparation can make the difference between a challenging school year and a successful one filled with meaningful progress. 

For over 60 years, the Trudeau Center has been empowering children with intellectual and developmental disabilities to reach their full potential. Our experience has shown us that well-prepared IEPs serve as roadmaps for success, clearly outlining the support, services, and accommodations each child needs to thrive in their educational environment. 

Understanding Your Child’s Current Progress

Before entering any IEP meeting, it’s essential to have a clear picture of where your child stands academically, socially, and behaviorally. Review progress reports from the previous school year, noting areas of growth as well as ongoing challenges. Document specific examples of your child’s achievements and struggles, as these concrete observations will be valuable during IEP discussions. 

Consider keeping a simple journal throughout the summer months, noting any skills your child has developed, challenges they’ve overcome, or new areas of difficulty that have emerged. This information helps paint a complete picture of your child’s current abilities and needs. 

Gathering Essential Documentation

Successful IEP preparation requires organizing relevant documentation before the meeting. Collect recent evaluation reports, including psychological, educational, occupational therapy, physical therapy, and speech-language assessments. If your child receives services through programs like Trudeau’s Early Intervention or Pathways Strategic Teaching Center, gather progress reports and recommendations from these providers. 

Medical records that impact your child’s educational needs should also be included, such as reports from specialists, medication information that affects learning, or documentation of health conditions requiring classroom accommodations. 

“Parents and caregivers are their child’s best advocates, and preparation is key to effective advocacy,” explains Dr. Andre Bessette, Vice President of Children’s Services at the Trudeau Center. “When families come to IEP meetings with organized documentation and clear goals, it creates a collaborative environment where everyone can focus on what’s best for the child. The more information the team has about a child’s strengths, challenges, and interests, the better we can design supports that truly meet their needs.” 

Setting Realistic and Meaningful Goals

Effective IEP goals strike a balance between being challenging enough to promote growth while remaining achievable within the timeframe. Consider your child’s developmental trajectory and think about skills that would make the most significant impact on their daily life and future independence. 

Goals should be specific, measurable, and functional. Rather than vague objectives like “improve communication,” effective goals might specify “will use a communication device to make requests for preferred items in 8 out of 10 opportunities across three different settings.” This specificity helps teachers and therapists know exactly what to work toward and how to measure progress. 

Think beyond academic skills to include social, behavioral, and life skills that support your child’s overall development. For children with autism spectrum disorder or related conditions, goals might address social interaction, emotional regulation, or sensory processing needs. 

Building Collaborative Relationships

The most successful IEPs emerge from collaborative relationships between families and school teams. Approach meetings with a spirit of partnership, recognizing that everyone shares the common goal of supporting your child’s success. 

“The relationship between families and educational teams is fundamental to a child’s progress,” notes Jacqueline Ferreira, Director of Early Intervention at the Trudeau Center. “When we work together—sharing observations, celebrating successes, and problem-solving challenges—we create an environment where children can truly flourish. IEP meetings should feel like team meetings where everyone’s expertise is valued and utilized.” 

Come prepared with questions about teaching strategies, assessment methods, and how services will be coordinated between different providers. Communicate openly about your child’s interests, motivations, and what works well at home. Be honest about challenges and areas where you need additional support or resources. 

Planning for Implementation and Monitoring

A well-written IEP is only effective when it’s consistently implemented and regularly monitored. Discuss how progress will be measured and reported throughout the year. Establish clear communication protocols with teachers and service providers so you stay informed about your child’s daily experiences and progress toward goals. 

Consider requesting regular check-ins beyond formal progress reports. Many families find that brief monthly communications help identify issues early and celebrate successes as they occur. For additional guidance on preparing for and navigating the IEP process, parents/caregivers can access valuable resources through the Rhode Island Parent Information Network (RIPIN) at https://ripin.org/ripin/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/IEP-Guidebook-3-13.pdf.  

Moving Forward with Confidence

IEP preparation requires time and effort, but the investment pays dividends in your child’s educational experience. Remember that you know your child best, and your insights are invaluable to the educational team. Trust your instincts, ask questions when something doesn’t feel right, and celebrate the progress your child makes along the way. 

As families across Rhode Island prepare for the new school year, the Trudeau Center remains committed to supporting children with differing abilities and their families. Through comprehensive programs spanning early intervention through adult services, we continue our 60-year legacy of transforming lives and creating bright futures for everyone we serve. Your advocacy and preparation make a real difference in your child’s educational journey and future success.