"The IEP was already written before I walked in."
A school may prepare a draft, but a draft cannot replace team discussion. Parents have the right to participate in meetings about identification, evaluation, placement, and FAPE. If the meeting feels scripted, book a $29 overview with Stephanie Wynn before the next one.
Signs the Team Is Still Open to Participation
Look for whether the team:
- Shares the draft with enough time for meaningful review.
- Asks for parent concerns and present-level information.
- Discusses alternatives rather than defending one outcome.
- Changes the document when team discussion supports a change.
- Schedules enough time or agrees to reconvene when needed.
Stephanie Wynn's Recommendation
Send your parent concerns and proposed agenda before the meeting. At the start, ask that each concern be discussed and reflected in the notes or present levels.
Slow the Meeting Down Without Escalating It
Ask what data supports each proposal, what other options were considered, and where parent input appears in the document. If time runs out, ask to reconvene rather than rushing through unresolved decisions.
You do not have to outnumber the school team to participate effectively. Preparation gives your questions structure. Reserve your $29 first-client overview to build that structure.
