Have you ever sat in an IEP meeting feeling confused, overwhelmed, or unsure if you can speak up? You are not alone, and more importantly, you are not powerless.
In this episode 31 of Starting with IEP, Flor de Amelia is joined by Dr. Marielle Mathews to break down one of the most misunderstood parts of the IEP process: procedural safeguards and your rights as a parent. Together, they unpack what schools don’t always explain clearly, including when you can say yes, when you can say no, and how to confidently advocate for your child.
You’ll learn how to navigate evaluations, understand consent, and use your rights in a practical way, not just know they exist. This conversation also sheds light on why some parents hesitate to pursue services, how stigma and fear can impact decisions, and how your voice plays a critical role in shaping your child’s support.
By the end of this episode, you will:
- Understand what procedural safeguards are and why they matter
- Know when you can say yes or no to evaluations and services
- Feel more confident participating in IEP meetings
- Learn how to review and use your child’s educational records
- Recognize how your input directly shapes your child’s IEP
This episode is a must-listen for any parent navigating special education, IEP meetings, or child evaluations. You are not just included at the table, you are essential.
If this episode helped you, share it with another parent who needs support. For more tools, resources, and step-by-step guidance, visit www.startingwithiep.com.
🎧 Press play when you’re ready. Let’s learn this together.
Episode 31 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?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==
Facebook: Marielle Mathews https://www.facebook.com/marielle.mathews.psyd?locale=es_LA
💡 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
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