Where I Aut-a Be

Teaching tips, ideas, and resources for Special Education

5 IEP Meeting Teacher Tips

Got IEP nerves and anxiety? Me too! Here are a few IEP meeting teacher tips that I like to do so that I am in the best headspace possible to facilitate a successful meeting. Believe me when I say I still make plenty of mistakes and it’s not always rainbows. Nevertheless, here are the things that have helped me over the span of five years of IEP meetings.

flare pens featuring an image that reads "IEP mantra=no surprises"

1. Wear something that makes you feel confident

For me that’s usually lipstick, a cute headband, or one level up from my basic everyday teacher attire. It doesn’t have to be anything extravagant or fancy, just a little extra touch to help boost your confidence.

2. Preview the meeting with parents

My IEP mantra is no surprises. By previewing the meeting beforehand, you can receive much needed input from parents. I also like to ask about concerns before the meeting. Asking this question during the meeting doesn’t offer any time for reflection. It doesn’t offer parents time to actually answer the question. This also gives you a change to problem solve BEFORE the meeting if there are concerns.

3. Meet your needs

This may sound silly, but are your basic needs being met? Did you sleep? Have you eaten breakfast? Taken a deep breath? Have you drank enough water? I’ll link my favorite water jug here. I always take it with me to IEP meetings because sometimes those meetings can run long.

4. Positive affirmations

There is a reason this one is listed. Sometimes IEP meetings are litigious. That is not a reflection of you as a teacher. I have had plenty of IEP meetings with advocates present. Some have been pleasant experiences while others have left me depleted, discouraged, and bullied. When things take an unexpected turn, have your positive affirmations ready. I am a good teacher, I am doing enough for my students, I am worthy of this job, and I have experience and knowledge that guide my decisions.

5. Bring an IEP notepad

I like to bring a designated IEP notepad to write down any parent’s needs. There is always something that comes up not related to the IEP. If I don’t write it down, I won’t remember! I always bring the same notepad to my meetings so I always remember where I wrote my IEP notes down.

IEP meetings can be one of the hardest things to balance as a special education teacher. I hope these IEP meeting teacher tips add value to your sped teacher toolbox. If you enjoyed reading this content be sure to check out my other sped teacher tips and tricks here.

Happy Teaching!

Sofie

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