{"id":390,"date":"2012-03-30T17:35:27","date_gmt":"2012-03-30T17:35:27","guid":{"rendered":"http:\/\/www.speechbuddy.com\/blog\/?p=390"},"modified":"2016-02-16T10:11:01","modified_gmt":"2016-02-16T18:11:01","slug":"how-to-prepare-for-an-iep-hearing","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.speechbuddy.com\/blog\/legal-issues\/how-to-prepare-for-an-iep-hearing\/","title":{"rendered":"How to Prepare for an IEP Hearing"},"content":{"rendered":"
\"Gavel<\/a>

Image source: apraxiaadventures.com<\/p><\/div>\n

Disagreeing with an IEP<\/h2>\n

If you disagree with your child\u2019s Individualized Education Program (IEP)<\/a>, you can try to negotiate with the IEP team to reach a compromise. You may reject the proposed compromise if you feel that it does not serve your child\u2019s best interests. If negotiation fails, the next step is to file a formal complaint with your state\u2019s Department of Education. Assuming that the state agrees to hear your complaint, you will have the opportunity to present your argument before a due process hearing. It\u2019s recommended that you retain an attorney for the hearing.<\/p>\n

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Preparing for the Hearing<\/h2>\n

Expect to spend hours preparing for the hearing. Preparation is critical for a favorable outcome for your child. Official hearings can also be intimidating; the knowledge that you are well-prepared can help lessen any anxiety you may experience.<\/p>\n

Subpoena Witnesses<\/h3>\n

You don\u2019t need to show up to the hearing to argue your case alone. You can \u2013 and should \u2013 subpoena any witnesses that you feel can help your argument. Make a list of potential witnesses. These will likely include your child\u2019s speech therapist, pediatrician, teachers, and possibly childcare workers. Once you have a list of those who might testify in your favor, write a list of witnesses that the school district may call.<\/p>\n

For each person on both lists, write down brief descriptions of that person\u2019s training, credentials, and knowledge of your child and his speech disorder. Choose witnesses that are likely to give strong testimony in your child\u2019s favor. Whenever possible, it\u2019s always preferable to call witnesses that are willing to testify.<\/p>\n

The information that you write down regarding the witnesses that the school district will call can help to shape the supporting documents that you use. For example, if the school\u2019s speech therapist might testify that your child does not require one-on-one speech therapy sessions, you need to present evidence that argues otherwise.<\/p>\n

Submit your witness list within the time period specified by your state \u2013 it is likely five business days before the hearing.<\/p>\n

\"IEP<\/a>

Image source: featsonevada.squarespace.com<\/p><\/div>\n

Preparing Yourself As a Witness<\/h3>\n

As you work to prepare your witnesses, remember that you are likely to be a witness as well. You may be questioned, perhaps by your partner or attorney, or you may read a comprehensive statement. If you are concerned about getting all of your key points into your testimony, reading a statement may be the best route.<\/p>\n

Organize your written statement around your key points and remain objective. Use simple sentences to describe your child, his speech disorder, and any secondary complications that his speech disorder causes. Discuss how his speech disorder affects him and his academic progress. Discuss your observations from watching him during speech therapy and while he interacted with his peers and with adults. Discuss each point in contention in the IEP and describe the outcome that you feel is best for your child.<\/p>\n

Preparing Your Witnesses<\/h3>\n

After developing your written statement or a series of questions and answers for your own testimony, prepare the witnesses that you plan to call. Write down a list of questions that you will ask each one. Be sure to write down questions about the witness\u2019 credentials and relation to your child first. Then, move on to questions regarding your child\u2019s speech disorder and his therapy needs. Sample questions may include:<\/p>\n