Individualized Education Program: Why a Parent’s Role in the IEP Is to Be a "Full Partner" by Pepi Silverman

When a child enters the world, it is the parents’ responsibility to keep them safe, healthy and supported. Whether it is with the provision of food, warmth or comfort, the parents are the decision makers for their children, but when children enter school, a partnership is formed with the educators who teach their children. If a child struggles in school and eligibility for special education is determined, that partnership becomes formalized. Understanding that partnership and the roles involved can help parents continue to support and protect their children.

• Parents can help to determine a student’s abilities.
• Parents can assist the team in determining the most appropriate educational goals.
• Parents can support their child’s performance by monitoring their progress.
• Parents can monitor the efficacy of services by communicating with the team.

Parents have the unique perspective of knowing their child from the beginning and that insight can be invaluable in measuring their development. As parents share their expertise, children benefit from the knowledge and insights of “both” their school and their family, which will achieve the most appropriate outcome.