I received a call from my son’s teacher about an hour ago to schedule my first meeting. We tentatively set it up for tomorrow afternoon depending on the principals schedule to attend the meeting. Does anyone have any suggestions of what questions to ask at this first meeting? I have general questions like what type of tests? How long will the tests take? When and where will the tests be given? Who will and how long will it take to evaluate the tests? Depending on the outcome of the evaluations and if a LD is present how soon can we begin work on the IEP and implement it before the school year ends? What if an LD is not present what steps can we take to improve my sons academic performance?
Any suggestion? or Did I cover everything for the first meeting. I think the most important thing of this meeting is to convey the message, that I am committed 100% to the academic success of my child.
Re: Tomorrow is Day One
If the meeting is like the one I’ve been to it is an opportunity to share you view of your child. What are his strenghts and weaknesses and what your concerns are regarding his progress in school.
Helen
Re: Tomorrow is Day One
I’m afraid I don’t have much to add except best of luck tomorrow!!!!
I myself generally brainstorm questions, concerns and ideas, carry notes, past testing, current examples of school work, etc….
Re: Tomorrow is Day One
Wanda,
Bring dad or grandma or a friend along who can be your extra set of ears, your rock if you need one (I bring my husband, he’s my rock, I have trouble talking to groups of people), take some tums or mylanta if your stomache starts giving you trouble and try to get a good nights’ sleep.
If you have samples of your child’s tests and other schoolwork bring them also. The relevant ones I mean. Write a list of things you want to ask, taking notes as you go. I’ve heard bringing baked goodies is a good thing to do also but I haven’t done it myself. Maybe next time. Best wishes.
Amy
I agree w/bringing another adult
if at all possible
They will most likely have a number of people there and it just ‘feels better’ to be more than ONE.
Don’t be afraid to ask them to explain acronyms-OT, SLP, etc are second nature to them and asking “what does that mean?” will probably gently remind them to avoid using them
It sounds like you are well prepared
You will likely be meeting a few new people, too. Be sure to write down their names & titles and get a firm idea of what they are about by observing their habits.
Are they friendly? Do they talk in terms that grandma can understand or do you have to ask for constant clarification? Are they in a big rush or just keeping things moving so we can all be home by supper time? *Did they explain the Procedural Safeguards or just hand them to you to read?*
Let your instincts guide you, Mom. They always stand you in good stead in other facets of your child’s life.
Nothing—and I mean *nothing*—in this whole process is caste in stone for more than a day. Remember that. You cannot be coerced into signing for a year’s services. You can reconvene the team the next day if you are troubled. So, just don’t worry about getting every answer and every detail just so.
Keep every paper in a file. Every single one. Get a plastic folder with an elastic band around it. Make notes at the meeting. Put them in the folder. Make sure the date is on them. If you lose your papers, they can be replaced, but it is a very big hassle.
Now, everything is going to be fine. Sleep well. Take two Tylenol & call us when you get back!
:-)