122: IEP Progress Reports: What Parents Need To Know

Special Education Strategist: Expert Advice for IEPs, 504 Plans, Dyslexia, Parent Advocacy, Learning Disabilities, Executive Function, Dysgraphia, ADHD, Autism, Neurodivergent

In this episode of The Special Ed Strategist Podcast, host Wendy Taylor, M.Ed., ET/P, delves into the essentials of measuring and reporting IEP progress. She offers actionable advice for parents to confidently interpret their child's progress reports, request raw data, and advocate for goal adjustments when progress stalls. Wendy emphasizes the importance of understanding legal rights under IDEA and provides strategies to ensure IEP goals are effectively supporting student growth.
Key Takeaways:

• IEP Progress Monitoring Matters: Data drives decisions—progress updates should show if supports are working.
• Know Your Rights: Under IDEA, schools must report IEP progress as often as report cards. Check your child’s IEP for how and when progress is measured.
• Demand Real Data: Generic phrases like “making progress” aren’t enough. Ask for raw data or work samples.
• Stalled Progress? Adjust the Goal: If progress is stagnant, request a meeting and ask if the goal is too big. Break it into smaller, scaffolded steps.
• Track at Home: Your observations matter—compare home progress with school reports.
  

Connect with Wendy Taylor:

• Instagram: @learningessentials
• LinkedIn: Wendy Taylor
• Facebook: Learning Essentials
• Website: www.LearningEssentialsEDU.com
• Course: Cracking the Code to Special Education Eligibility
  
  

External Resources:
Wrightslaw: All About IEPs
A comprehensive guide to understanding IEPs, including legal requirements and practical tips. https://www.wrightslaw.com/

1. Understood.org: How to Track Your Child’s Progress at School
   Offers tools and strategies for parents to monitor and support their child's educational progress. https://www.understood.org/
   
   

For more insights and resources, visit the Learning Essentials Podcast Page.

If you found this episode helpful, please like, share, and follow for more tips. For additional guidance on IEPs and educational services, check out "Cracking the Code to Special Education Eligibility" or visit our website.