The Importance Of Signing And Writing An IEP
The individualized education program (IEP) is a document of massive importance to your child’s education. If your son or daughter needs one, it needs to be filled out properly and fully to carry the legal weight you need. We can assist with this.
At Augustin Egelsee, LLP, we are parents ourselves as well as educational law attorneys. We know the unique, unyielding pressure that parents face when their kids need assistance. We’ve been there, and we’re passionate about helping families move forward from the hopelessness ahead of them.
Establishing An Individualized Education Program
At the end of the IEP, the school district will ask you to sign the document. You don’t have to sign it on the spot. Think about what the district has offered. You can ask for a break or even take it home and return it another day. Of course, if you agree with the entire IEP, it is always best to sign it so the program can begin immediately.
Before you sign, however, ask to read the entire document (including the IEP notes) and make sure everything agreed upon is documented accurately. You can also agree on certain parts, but not others (e.g., you agree on related services, but not placement – sign the document and state that you agree with the services but not placement). If you disagree with parts of the IEP, spell out your disagreements on the parent dissent page.
Writing On The IEP
Make sure that you know what statements are entered onto the IEP document and state any objections immediately. This is especially important on the IEP notes. Every IEP has a page where someone in the school staff is writing down notes during the IEP meeting. If you disagree on a particular issue, make sure your objections are accurately documented in the IEP notes. If the note taker does not write down your position, then request a separate page. Label this page “parent dissent” and record your point of view and ask that it is attached to the IEP.
You have an absolute right to state your position, but if the school district does not attach your dissent, indicate the following on the signature page: 1) that you do not agree with everything in the IEP document, and 2) that you want to attach a dissent but the school administration would not allow you to do so. Then file a complaint with the California Department of Education on the basis that the school district failed to allow you to participate in the IEP process.
We’ll Answer Your Questions. We’ll Advocate For You.
We will never back away form your issue or leave you without some way to contact us. When you work with us, attorneys Danielle Augustin and Edwin Egelsee, we are on your side, and our staff is skilled and experienced in talking to parents facing just the same issues you are. Contact us by phone at 714-602-1498 or send an email using this form.