Ten Key Takeaways from “A Full Life Ahead”
Planning for Life after Special Education in Massachusetts
Presented by Pamela Coveney, Disability Law Center, Boston, MA
- Goals in the IEP should be specific and concrete.
- Document everything and be as specific as possible. These specifics can be used to measure your child’s progress toward goals as well as make all parties accountable.
- When discussing transitions be sure to focus not only on the academic skills, but the social skills as well.
- Your child should be objectively tested in order to obtain an accurate assessment.
- Transition will be based upon assessment of your child’s strengths, interests and challenges.
- Be sure to sign and date the application.
- Keep records of the supports you are providing for your child.Include the smallest details of support you personally provide which are essential to your child’s well being. This will be very helpful in determining the level of supports required.
- You are not required to sign the IEP at the meeting, however do not reject the IEP proposal. Rejecting the IEP will waive your right to receive services. Instead, check the box Accept in Part/Reject in Part as this will keep the process in motion.
- Always follow up in writing.
- A MUST: Download the Transition Services Online Manual produced by the Disability Law Center. This is a treasure chest of information including templates for letters requesting evaluations and referrals. http://www.dlc-ma.org/_manual/LASE_manual.htm
This is for informational purposes only and is not provided by, nor endorsed by, LPL Financial.