Attended another ADHD conference

[jill]

The first hour was about what ADHD is yadda yadda yadda then they went into IEP and 504.

First of all we were given big 3 ring binders with dividers and instructions as to how to break up our records we have on our children. I have all my stuff in big manila envelopes and yes have to dig through it all to find what I am looking for although everything is in one place. Now I will have everything more organized with a picture of Nette on the front and everything in protector pages. I was told to once the book is together next IEP meeting to take it with so I have everything I need to advocate in front of me something I never thought of. In the handouts I was given a list of what the parent advocate is supposed to do for us instead of just sitting there. I was told to keep ALL IEP invites they send (normally I toss) this is proof of who was invited so if someone was missed an important person the meeting can be invalid, we were also instructed to keep some of your childs work as proof. In case of needing services if you have samples of the childs work to show and say the service is needed. Same for 504 stuff keep all.

She went into diplomas too have our kids take the regents for if they do not the diploma is just a piece of paper they attended school so watch the diploma thing. Also if you think your child needs other help for writing like someone to take their notes for them or machinery (like a computer) any kind of assistance electronic start NOW for it takes years to get on IEP so if you think it is needed for your child to succeed start talking about it now and have it documented. If I think of any more things I learned today I will add later. Jill

[jj]

What a bunch of wonderful information, Jill! All of those are great tips.

Can you give us an idea of how they had you break up your paperwork in that 3 ring binder or did they say how it is best to do it?

[jill]

The sections are Personal Information, Medical information, IEP including behavior interventions if any, Progress reports (with IEP when the send you the how they are doing with progress) We were instructed if we see no progress for a while to do ask why or something needs changing. A section for samples of childs work, evaluations any kind, Related services like OT, PT,Speech, Orientation/Mobility,training, any kind of therapy.

*It was also said to have a second book or two one for elementary school, one for Middle school, and high school.

[jj]

Thanks so much Jill. I know that will help some parents a lot. Sometimes if things are just spelled out for you to do, like you just did, it is so helpful because many parents heads start spinning thinking of how to organize things. Wonderful tips.

[jill]

That was their idea in the training they also gave us info on the laws. Their point was you go into a meeting and they have papers and plans in front of them we walk in with notebook for notes and a book it shows you are ready for battle. They did recommend bringing a friend a long so they can take the notes for you while you speak to not miss anything. Oh and this is big we as parents do have the right to request a copy of the transcripts from the IEP meeting another thing I did not know.

This is what happens a couple of days later more stuff sinks in and I remember more.