Dear A.,
By now you've read several responses. #1 ~ if she hasn't already request an evaluation through LIU immediately. #2 ~ when going for IEP conferences ~ This is a COLLABORATIVE process. That means that this is NOT a meeting where everyone shows up and they hand you some papers to sign. It DOES mean that you meet with a learning support teacher or representative and several other people. As a TEAM you decide what goal to set for your child. BTW, she should be in on this as well. If she's already got an IEP make sure that you keep them to compare from year to year. My step-son got virtually the same goals two or three years in a row until I finally put my foot down. #3 IEP's are supposed to come with a "progress report" quarterly. That means that every time she gets a report card, an IEP progress report for how she's progressing on the goals should accompany it. If it doesn't, ask why, and let them know that they have two weeks to have it to you. You will probably have to remind them that you EXPECT to see EACH GOAL's progress, not just a generic overview. At this point, that's probably the best advice that I can give. Oh, one other thing, you can also request an advocate for your daughter if you think that her needs are not being met by the school or the LIU/IEP team. Remember, you know her best, so don't be afraid just b/c the teachers have a degree. BTW, if you have a friend or know someone with an education degree that you trust, feel free to let the IEP/LIU team know that he/she will be attending with you. You have the right to bring just about anyone you want with you, within reason. You also have the right to request a further conference or further evaluations if you feel that your daughter needs it. If your daughter is able, let her speak at the meetings. Allow her the opportunity to communicate to those present what/how she feels, and what SHE thinks she needs help with. In my step-son's case he SAID that he didn't think he needed help, but his actions showed otherwise. Also, the "system" allowed him to be lazy, not do assignments, projects, etc. and still be passed b/c of his disability. Good luck and God bless. Feel free to e-mail me back if you want to know more.