Have you ever walked out of an IEP meeting feeling overwhelmed, confused, or like decisions were already made without you? That feeling is more common than you think, and it does not mean you have to accept it.
In Episode 32 of Starting with IEP, host Flor de Amelia continues her conversation with Dr. Marielle Mathews to break down what parents need to know when they disagree with the school. This episode goes deeper into your rights, what to do when something doesn’t feel right, and how to advocate for your child without feeling intimidated or shut down.
You will learn how to request an Independent Educational Evaluation (IEE) at no cost, recognize red flags during IEP meetings, and confidently speak up even when the room feels overwhelming. This conversation also highlights the emotional side of advocacy, from feeling outnumbered to navigating difficult conversations with clarity and confidence.
✨ In this episode, you’ll learn:
• How to disagree in an IEP meeting respectfully and effectively
• What an Independent Educational Evaluation (IEE) is and how to request it
• The biggest red flags to watch for during IEP meetings
• Why nothing is final until you give consent
• How to ask for breaks, clarification, or follow-up meetings
• What to do if decisions feel predetermined
• How language barriers and bias can impact communication
• Practical ways to advocate with confidence
Whether you are new to the IEP process or have been navigating it for years, this episode will help you feel more prepared, more informed, and more confident walking into your next meeting.
You are not just part of the team. You are your child’s strongest advocate, and your voice matters.
🎧 Press play when you’re ready. Let’s learn this together.
Episode 32 is now streaming on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and YouTube.
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@FlorDeAmelia
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1TC4pMJxQrwcyStNfnc9Rd?si=b77353d4aea34a3d
Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/starting-with-iep/id1828187191
Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/3a1b111a-750f-4c5e-a3c5-38c55ee4e2d4/starting-with-iep
✨ Connect with Dr. Marielle Mathews and explore her knowledge:
Website: https://www.delcopsychservices.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marielle-mathews-psyd-ncsp-27ba7477/
Instagram: @delcopsychservices https://www.instagram.com/delcopsychservices
Facebook: Marielle Mathews https://www.facebook.com/marielle.mathews.psyd
💡 Don’t forget to grab your 𝗙𝗥𝗘𝗘 𝗜𝗘𝗣 𝗣𝗿𝗲𝗽 𝗣𝗮𝗰𝗸. Comment IEP PROCESS below.
👉 Parents, has a teacher or school shown you compassion during the IEP journey? Share your experience with us!
Let’s Connect!
Turn IEP stress into confidence. I share useful resources every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday across all my social media platforms.
Podcast Website: http://www.startingwithiep.com/
Website: https://www.flordeamelia.com
For content collaborations, email: flor@flordeamelia.com
#IEP #SpecialEducation #ParentAdvocacy #IEPHelp #SpecialNeedsParent #IEPMeeting #ParentRights #SpecialEducationSupport #IEPTips #AutismSupport #InclusiveEducation #DisabilityAdvocacy #SchoolSupport #ParentEmpowerment #EducationSupport
