The theme for January 2025 has been all about learning how to implement student-led IEPs. To wrap up this series of episodes, I'm joined by a teacher who works within my district and who has been implementing student-led IEPs for the last 2 years. Listen in as Bristol Bale and I discuss the real-life application of this transformative practice.
Key Discussion Points:
- Why Student-Led IEPs?
Bristol shares her initial motivations for shifting to student-led IEPs, highlighting the lack of student awareness about their own IEPs and the need for greater self-advocacy in middle school. - Initial Challenges:
Bristol discusses the early challenges she faced, including developing a new format that allowed students to take the lead in IEP meetings while ensuring the structure aligned with district standards. - Preparation Steps:
Learn about the comprehensive preparation process Bristol uses to equip her students to lead their IEP meetings, which includes regular Wednesday sessions focusing on different aspects of the IEP. - Ensuring Inclusive Participation:
Bristol explains her strategies for adapting the student-led IEP process to accommodate all students, regardless of their cognitive abilities, using tools like speech-to-text and visual aids. - Impact on Students:
Discover the positive changes Bristol has observed in her students, including increased self-awareness, better understanding of their accommodations, and enhanced self-advocacy. - Success Story:
A powerful testimony from Bristol about an eighth-grade student who used his knowledge of his IEP to advocate for necessary accommodations in his classroom. - Advice for Educators:
Bristol offers practical advice for other educators interested in implementing student-led IEPs, emphasizing the importance of using student-friendly language and allowing students to take ownership of their meetings. - Parental Feedback:
Insight into how parents have responded positively to the student-led approach, finding the meetings more understandable and informative.
If you’re looking for guidance on how to get started with student-led IEPs, my resource How to Implement Student-Led IEP Meetings for Any Grade Level provides detailed strategies to help students feel confident and capable in this role.
Sign up to be notified each time a new episode airs and get access to all the discounts!
Don't forget to leave a review of the show!
Follow Jennifer
Instagram
TPT
