As advocates, our clients sometimes ask us, “Can I record an IEP?”
We always strongly recommend our clients record IEP team meetings. Many families are concerned that their child’s school will interpret this as adversarial. We get it, but record the meeting anyway.
Sometimes, incredibly important goals, supports, or services discussed at the IEP team meeting do not get written into the IEP document. This can be catastrophic, especially after all the hard work you put into getting everything your child needs. Occasionally, key details you have discussed do not make it into the final document.
The individual writing up the meeting notes also participates in the meeting, often presents results, discusses goals, and joins the discussion—all while they document the discussion. What could possibly go wrong? Some people multitask better than others, and we have occasionally seen meeting notes that appear to have been taken at another student’s IEP team meeting. More frequently, we see key errors or changes in the IEP document schools send to parents after the meeting.
Never ask, “Can I record an IEP?” Inform the IEP team in writing 24 hours in advance that you will record the next meeting.
Some attendees will have time constraints and need to leave by a certain time. Often, parents will have to choose between completing the IEP document in the allotted time, or taking time to carefully review all progress to date. Most parents want to spend the time getting as much accomplished as possible during the IEP and will read the entire document (and notes) if there is time left. A full IEP document can be between 25 and 60 pages, which is very difficult to read and understand during the limited time allotted to an IEP team meeting.
After a long meeting, often at the end of the school day, the team is not always willing to take another 20 to 30 minutes to review and correct the IEP. Even if they are willing, many times some or all of the team either needs to leave. Even if you stay, many of us are not at our best after a long and intricate IEP. Having the recording of the IEP team meeting allows you to go back through the session and compare the IEP document to what was agreed upon. If everything matches up, fantastic! If not, you are able to make corrections and present your school district with unbiased audio that they agreed to the services, supports, or placements.
For help at your child’s next IEP meeting, more information about our special education advocacy services, or for a FREE 20-minute consultation to see if we are a good fit for you, call or fill out our contact form.
As parents, we understand. As advocates, we can help.