Whether your child’s headed back to school or has a brand-new Individualized Education Program (IEP), you’ll want to get them off to a good start. Here’s what you can do to kick off your child’s IEP and year the right way.

  1. Print out a copy.

    Make sure you have (and have read) every page of your child’s IEP — from the attendance sheet to the notes section. Read more to on Understood.org to learn which parts are most important.

  2. Attach an introduction letter.

    It’s a great way to share unique things teachers should know about your child that aren’t included in the IEP. Use this back-to-school letter form as a guide.

  3. Confirm your child’s school schedule.

    Teacher assignments can change over the summer or when a program changes. Know your child’s most up-to-date schedule and teacher names.

  4. Give a copy of the IEP and IEP introduction letter to all of your child’s teachers.

    This can help make everyone aware of your child’s needs. It also helps keep general education teachers involved.

  5. Ask to be kept informed.

    You’ll get scheduled progress updates, but let providers know you’re available to talk and problem-solve as issues come up.

  6. Set up a check-in meeting.

    Before calendars are booked, schedule a time a few weeks into the year to sit down with the IEP plan administrator and/or special education teacher.

  7. Go over the IEP with your child.

    Make sure your child knows the accommodations they should have (and can ask for) and the services they’ll be getting.

  8. Practice self-advocacy with your child.

    Talk about ways your child can remind teachers about what’s in the IEP. You can’t be with your child, so they’ll need to know how to speak up effectively.

Read more: School discipline: The rights of students with IEPs and 504 plans