Independent Educational Review Committee?

Question

Independent Educational Review Committee?

I have an appointment with my son's school about his IEP (Independent Educational Plan) and I was wondering what sort of questions should I be asking... My son was diagnosed with ADD and it is possible there are some LD's (Learning Disabilities). His organizational skills are a mess... He can't follow multiple directions. Any thoughts from parents who have been through this process?

Answer 1

I am not sure why you are having an IEP meeting for a student with ADD.  ADD is not a disability--legally speaking.  As for your concerns, children who suffer from ADD typically are disorganized and have trouble following multiple step directions.  As I stated before, I am not sure why you are having an IEP meeting unless there is another diagnosis.  I would ask for help from the teacher in helping your son becoming more organized.  This could consist of a lesson on cleaning out his desk, checklists (ADD children often do better with written directions), as well as one step directions to put items in their proper place.  That being said, you need to help him learn to organize things.  Start with his book bag and once that is mastered, move on to his room.  Good luck

Answer 2

You can receive special education services for ADD under Otherwise Health Impaired (OHI), at least where I teach.  But that's only for severe symptoms that interfere with a student's education.  It sounds like your son has already been through a referral process and you might be meeting to discuss testing results?  Some possible questions might be:

1.  What services does my son qualify for?

2.  How many hours are you recommending for services?

3.  Should a behavior plan be created for my son to help modify his symptoms?

4.  What accommodations (supplementary services) are going to be provided to help him be successful in the general education classroom?

5.  What accommodations need to be in place for state assessments?

The list could go on and on, just don't forget that there are no stupid questions.  If you have a question during the meeting, ASK IT!!  I can't stress how important your role is in developing a plan for your son, you have every right to know all of the information and details that go into the IEP.

Good luck!!

Answer 3

If this is your first time with the IERC, then they will probably discuss testing and placement information. If your son has already been serviced in special ed, then they will just be reviewing annual progress.

With the problems your son is having, you can request certain accommodations to help him be more successful. You can request that the teacher assist with a daily planner or schedule to help him keep track of assignments and homework. He can have preferential seating - at the front of the room or in a place/way that is free from distractions. His assignments can be broken down so that he is given smaller portions at a time (he doesn't get bogged down and lost in a large amount of work). He can also have frequent reminders and redirection from the teacher to help him stay on task.

You want to make sure you understand what type of placement they suggest if he has qualified for special ed - if he will be in the general class all day or if he will be pulled out to a resource class for part of the day. How old is your son? I hope some of these suggestions helped you. Feel free to email me if you have any other questions or need clarification.